Section 472 of CrPC : Section 472: Continuing offence.

Explanation using Example

Example 1:

Scenario: Unauthorized Construction

Details: Mr. Sharma constructs an illegal extension to his house without obtaining the necessary permissions from the municipal authorities. The illegal construction is discovered by the authorities, but Mr. Sharma continues to use the extension despite being issued a notice to demolish it.

Application of Section 472: Since the unauthorized construction is a continuing offence, the period of limitation for taking cognizance of this offence will reset every day that the illegal extension remains in place. This means that the authorities can take legal action against Mr. Sharma at any time as long as the illegal construction continues to exist.

Example 2:

Scenario: Environmental Pollution

Details: A factory owned by XYZ Industries is found to be discharging toxic waste into a nearby river, violating environmental protection laws. Despite repeated warnings and fines from the Pollution Control Board, the factory continues to discharge waste into the river.

Application of Section 472: The act of discharging toxic waste into the river is a continuing offence. Therefore, the period of limitation for prosecuting XYZ Industries will restart every day that the pollution continues. This allows the authorities to initiate legal proceedings against the factory at any point as long as the pollution persists.