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Section 173 — Report of police officer on completion of investigation
173
173
Report of police officer on completion of investigation
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
Police ProcedureInvestigationCourt ProcessProcedural Law
🗣️ Simple Explanation
What does this law say? Section 173 of the CrPC says that the police must finish their investigation without taking too long. Once the investigation is done, the police officer sends a report to a Magistrate. This report includes details like the names of the people involved, the nature of the crime, and whether the accused has been arrested.
Why does this law exist? This law ensures that investigations are completed efficiently. It helps the court to start the legal process quickly. It also provides information about the case to the Magistrate.
Real-life impact After a crime, the police investigate and then submit a report. This report helps the court to decide what to do next. The report includes important details about the case. The accused and the victim are informed about the action taken.
What happens if you break this law? This section doesn't specify a punishment. However, if the police delay the investigation, it could affect the case. The police officer could face departmental action for not following the rules.
💡 Real Life Example

Rahul is accused of a UPI fraud. The police investigate and then send a report to the Magistrate. The report includes details about the fraud and the evidence. The Magistrate will then decide what to do next.

Priya is involved in a road rage incident. The police investigate and submit a report. The report states the details of the incident. It also includes the names of the people involved. The Magistrate will then decide if charges should be filed.

🛡️ KNOW YOUR RIGHTS
  • •Know that the police must complete the investigation promptly.
  • •Understand that you will be informed about the police action.
  • •Seek legal advice if the investigation is delayed.
  • •Know that you can get copies of the documents.
❓ FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Section 173 of the CrPC deals with the police report after an investigation. It requires the police to complete the investigation quickly. They must then send a report to the Magistrate. The report includes details about the crime, the people involved, and the evidence. The Magistrate uses this report to decide the next steps.
After the police submit the report, the Magistrate reviews it. The Magistrate then decides whether to take cognizance of the offense. The Magistrate may also issue summons or warrants. The Magistrate may also decide to discharge the accused. The next steps depend on the details in the police report.
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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