Section 160 CrPC — Police officer’s power to require attendance of wit

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Section 160 — Police officer’s power to require attendance of witnesses

160

Police officer’s power to require attendance of witnesses

Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973

Chapter XII Information to The Police and Their Powers to Investigate

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Reviewed by Advocate Aditi Babbar, Seasoned Advocate · Practicing since 31 years

📅 Updated 2026-04-10📚 Source: The Gazette of India

WitnessesPolice PowersInvestigationCriminal Procedure

🗣️ Simple Explanation

What does this law say? Section 160 of the CrPC allows police officers to call witnesses for questioning. The police can ask people who know about the crime to come to the police station. However, certain people, like women and those over 65, cannot be called to a place other than their residence.

Why does this law exist? This law helps the police gather information during an investigation. It allows them to question witnesses and collect evidence. This helps to solve crimes.

Real-life impact If you witness a crime, the police might ask you to come to the police station. They will ask you questions about what you saw. This helps them to understand what happened.

What happens if you break this law? This section does not specify a punishment. It outlines the police's power to summon witnesses. If you are summoned and do not attend, you could face legal consequences.

💡 Real Life Example

Rahul witnesses a road rage incident. The police, under Section 160, can ask Rahul to come to the police station. They will question him about what he saw. Rahul's testimony can help the police. Failure to attend can lead to legal action.

Priya is a witness to a theft. The police, using Section 160, can call Priya to the police station. They will ask her questions about the theft. Priya's information can help the police. Failure to attend can lead to legal action.

🛡️ KNOW YOUR RIGHTS

•Know that the police can call you as a witness.
•Understand you must attend if summoned.
•Know that women and elderly can be questioned at home.
•Seek legal advice if you are summoned.

❓ FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Section 160 of the CrPC allows police officers to call witnesses for questioning. The police can ask people who know about the crime to come to the police station. This helps the police gather information and collect evidence during an investigation. This helps to solve crimes.

Section 160 itself does not specify a punishment. It outlines the police's power to summon witnesses. If you are summoned and do not attend, you could face legal consequences, such as being arrested or fined. The punishment for the actual crime being investigated will depend on the specific offense committed.

Sources & References

📒 Legal text sourced from The Gazette of India & AdvocateKhoj Bare Acts Library

⚖️ Content reviewed by Advocate Aditi Babbar, Seasoned Advocate, with 31 years of legal practice

📚 Act Reference: Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973

Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a qualified advocate for specific legal matters.

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