Section 157 of CrPC : Section 157: Procedure for investigation.

Explanation using Example

Example 1:

Scenario: A theft has occurred in a local market.

Details:

• A shopkeeper reports to the police that his shop was broken into and goods worth ₹50,000 were stolen.
• The officer in charge of the police station receives this information and suspects the commission of an offence.

Application of Section 157:

• The officer sends a report of the theft to the Magistrate who is empowered to take cognizance of such offences.
• The officer then proceeds to the market in person to investigate the facts and circumstances of the case.
• During the investigation, the officer collects evidence, interviews witnesses, and takes necessary measures to discover and arrest the offender.

Outcome:

• The investigation leads to the identification and arrest of the suspect, who is then charged with theft.

Example 2:

Scenario: A minor road accident occurs, and the parties involved settle the matter amicably.

Details:

• Two vehicles collide at a traffic signal, causing minor damage. Both drivers exchange contact information and agree to handle the repairs without involving the police.
• A bystander, however, reports the accident to the police.

Application of Section 157:

• The officer in charge of the police station receives the information but determines that the case is not of a serious nature and the parties involved have settled the matter.
• According to the proviso (a) of Section 157(1), the officer decides not to proceed in person or depute a subordinate officer to investigate the spot.

Outcome:

• The officer records the reasons for not fully complying with the investigation requirements in his report.
• The officer notifies the informant (the bystander) that the police will not investigate the case further.

Example 3:

Scenario: A woman reports a case of rape.

Details:

• A woman reports to the police that she has been raped.
• The officer in charge of the police station receives this information and suspects the commission of an offence.

Application of Section 157:

• The officer sends a report of the rape to the Magistrate who is empowered to take cognizance of such offences.
• The officer ensures that the statement of the victim is recorded at her residence or a place of her choice.
• As far as practicable, a woman police officer conducts the recording of the statement in the presence of the victim's parents, guardian, or a social worker from the locality.

Outcome:

• The victim's statement is recorded in a manner that ensures her comfort and safety.
• The investigation proceeds with sensitivity to the victim's circumstances, leading to the identification and arrest of the suspect.

Example 4:

Scenario: A false alarm about a burglary.

Details:

• A resident calls the police, claiming that a burglary is in progress at a neighbor's house.
• The officer in charge of the police station receives the information but, upon preliminary assessment, finds no sufficient ground to believe that a burglary has occurred.

Application of Section 157:

• According to proviso (b) of Section 157(1), the officer decides not to investigate the case further.
• The officer records the reasons for not entering on an investigation in his report.
• The officer notifies the informant (the resident) that the police will not investigate the case further.

Outcome:

• The police do not proceed with an unnecessary investigation, saving resources and avoiding inconvenience to the neighbor.
• The informant is informed about the decision, ensuring transparency in police actions.