Chapter 16 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1898, outlines the process by which police receive information about crimes and their powers to investigate such cases. The provisions include methods of recording information for cognizable and non-cognizable cases, steps for conducting investigations, and the associated obligations of police officers. This chapter also regulates the examination of witnesses and the handling of reports during the investigation to ensure fairness and legal compliance.
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
- What must a police officer do when information about a cognizable offense is provided orally?
a) Immediately arrest the suspect
b) Reduce the information to writing, read it back to the informant, and have it signed
c) Ignore the information unless provided in writing
d) Forward it directly to the Magistrate
Answer: b - Under Section 155, what is the role of the police in non-cognizable cases?
a) Investigate without Magistrate approval
b) Record information and seek Magistrate’s permission for investigation
c) Proceed with arrest without warrants
d) File a final report immediately
Answer: b - What is the primary condition for a police officer to investigate a cognizable case under Section 156?
a) Approval from a higher-ranking officer
b) Magistrate’s written permission
c) Jurisdiction over the area of occurrence
d) Complainant’s personal testimony
Answer: c - According to Section 157, when is a police officer allowed to skip an on-site investigation?
a) If the case is minor and involves a named individual
b) When no formal complaint is filed
c) If sufficient grounds for investigation are absent
d) Both a and c
Answer: d - What restriction is placed on using statements made to police during an investigation under Section 162?
a) They must be signed by the person making them
b) They can only be used during cross-examination
c) They cannot be used as evidence, except for contradictions
d) They must be submitted to the Magistrate for verification
Answer: c - Under Section 173, how should a police officer complete an investigation?
a) Within 24 hours of filing the FIR
b) Without unnecessary delay and submit a final report to the Magistrate
c) By arresting all involved parties immediately
d) By consulting the Provincial Government for guidance
Answer: b