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Section 174 — Police to enquire and report on suicide, etc
174
174
Police to enquire and report on suicide, etc
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 ProcedureDeath InvestigationInquestProcedural Law
🗣️ Simple Explanation
What does this law say? Section 174 of the CrPC deals with what the police do when someone dies. If the police get information about a suicide, murder, or accidental death, they must investigate. They inform the Executive Magistrate and go to the place where the body is found. They make a report about the cause of death.
Why does this law exist? This law ensures that deaths are properly investigated. It helps to determine the cause of death. It helps to identify if a crime has been committed.
Real-life impact If someone dies, the police will investigate. They will look for evidence and make a report. This report helps to determine if a crime was committed. It also helps to provide closure to the family.
What happens if you break this law? This section doesn't specify a punishment. However, if the police fail to investigate properly, it could affect the case. The police officer could face disciplinary action for not following the rules.
💡 Real Life Example

Amit is found dead, and the police suspect suicide. The police must investigate under Section 174. They inform the Executive Magistrate and examine the scene. They prepare a report about the cause of death.

Sneha dies in a car accident. The police investigate under Section 174. They prepare a report about the accident. They determine if any crime was committed. This helps in the legal process.

🛡️ KNOW YOUR RIGHTS
  • •Know that the police must investigate suspicious deaths.
  • •Understand that the police will make a report.
  • •Seek legal advice if you have questions about the investigation.
  • •Cooperate with the police during the investigation.
❓ FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Section 174 of the CrPC deals with police inquiries into deaths. If the police receive information about a suicide, murder, or accidental death, they must investigate. They inform the Executive Magistrate and prepare a report. The report describes the cause of death and any injuries. This helps to determine if a crime was committed.
District Magistrates, Sub-divisional Magistrates, and other Executive Magistrates can hold inquests. They are specially empowered by the State Government or the District Magistrate. They investigate the circumstances surrounding a death. They prepare a report about the cause of death.
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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