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Section 319 — Power to proceed against other persons appearing to be guilty of offence
319
319
Power to proceed against other persons appearing to be guilty of offence
Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973
Chapter XXIV General Provisions as to Inquiries and Trials
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Reviewed by Advocate Aditi Babbar, Seasoned Advocate · Practicing since 31 years
📅 Updated 2026-04-10📚 Source: The Gazette of India
Trial ProcedureAdditional AccusedCourt PowersProcedural Law
🗣️ Simple Explanation
What does this law say? Section 319 of the CrPC allows a court to take action against someone who appears guilty during a trial, even if they weren't initially accused. If evidence shows someone else committed a crime, the court can start proceedings against them. The court can arrest or summon this person. If the person is already in court, they can be detained. The trial against this new person starts fresh, with witnesses being re-examined.
💡 Real Life Example

During Amit's trial for theft, it's revealed that his friend, Rahul, helped him. The court can now start proceedings against Rahul. Sneha is a witness in a fraud case. During the trial, evidence suggests she was also involved. The court can detain her and start proceedings. Priya is accused of a crime. During the trial, it is revealed that her brother was also involved. The court can summon him.

🛡️ KNOW YOUR RIGHTS
  • •Be informed if the court considers you guilty.
  • •Be summoned or arrested if necessary.
  • •Have a fresh trial with re-examined witnesses.
  • •Seek legal counsel if proceedings are initiated against you.
❓ FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Section 319 of the CrPC allows a court to proceed against someone who appears guilty during a trial, even if they weren't initially accused. If evidence suggests someone else committed a crime, the court can start proceedings against them. This ensures that all those involved in a crime are held accountable. The trial against the new person starts fresh.
If during a trial, evidence suggests someone else committed a crime, the court can start proceedings against them. The court can arrest or summon this person. The trial against this new person starts fresh, with witnesses being re-examined. This ensures that all those involved in a crime are held accountable.
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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