BNSS-193: What is Included in a Police Charge Sheet? What is the Time Limit for Crime Investigation?

When a police officer investigates a cognizable or non-cognizable crime, they collect various pieces of evidence to prove the guilt of the accused. They periodically update the court with the case progress through a case diary. Every crime investigation has a specific time limit. Upon completion of the investigation, the police officer submits a comprehensive report, known as the charge sheet, to the magistrate or court. Let’s understand how a charge sheet is prepared.

Time Limit for Investigation After FIR

Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023: Section 192
"Report of Police Officer on Completion of Investigation"If a police officer is investigating a crime, they must submit their report to the court or magistrate within 90 days without any delay.
For crimes related to rape or under the POCSO Act, the investigating officer must complete the investigation within 60 days without any delay.

How is a Charge Sheet Prepared?

A police officer conducting a crime investigation prepares the charge sheet based on the following points and submits it to the magistrate:Names of Parties: Names of the victim and the accused.
First Information Report (FIR): Details and format of the FIR.

• Witnesses: Names of individuals familiar with the case, such as witnesses.
• Details of the Crime: Whether the crime occurred, if so, by whom, and the motive behind it.
• Status of the Accused: Whether the accused is in police custody or not.
• Bail Information: Whether the accused has been released on bail, including details of the bail bond.
• Judicial Custody: Whether the accused has been sent to judicial custody.
• Women-Related Crimes: For cases involving rape or the POCSO Act, the Medical Legal Certificate (MLC) must be attached.

Disclaimer: This news article has been translated from Hindi to English by Grok. If there are any errors in the translation, Grok is responsible for them.