Section 349Imprisonment or committal of person refusing to answer or produce document
349
349
Imprisonment or committal of person refusing to answer or produce document
Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973
Chapter XXVI Provisions as to Offences Affecting The Administration of Justice
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Reviewed by Advocate Aditi Babbar, Seasoned Advocate · Practicing since 31 years
📅 Updated 2026-04-10📚 Source: The Gazette of India
Court ProcedureWitnessLegal Compliance
🗣️ Simple Explanation
What does this law say? Section 349 of the CrPC deals with people who refuse to answer questions or produce documents in court. The court can imprison them or send them to custody.
Why does this law exist? It ensures the court can get the information it needs. It helps the court to conduct fair trials. This maintains the integrity of the legal process.
Real-life impact If you refuse to answer questions in court, you could be jailed. This section ensures witnesses cooperate. It helps the court gather evidence.
What happens if you break this law? The court can sentence you to simple imprisonment. They can also commit you to custody for up to seven days. This is if you refuse to answer questions or produce documents without a good reason.
⚖️ Punishment

Imprisonment up to seven days.

💡 Real Life Example

Amit refuses to answer questions in court about a fraud case. The court, under Section 349, can imprison him. This forces him to cooperate.

Sneha is asked to produce a document. She refuses without a valid excuse. The court can commit her to custody. This ensures she complies with the court's request.

🛡️ KNOW YOUR RIGHTS
  • You have the right to remain silent.
  • Consult a lawyer before answering questions.
  • Provide a valid reason for refusing.
  • Understand the consequences of non-cooperation.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Section 349 of the CrPC deals with people who refuse to answer questions or produce documents in court. The court can imprison them or send them to custody. This ensures that the court can get the information it needs for a fair trial.
If you refuse to answer questions or produce documents without a good reason, the court can sentence you to simple imprisonment. They can also commit you to custody for up to seven days. This is to ensure cooperation with the court.
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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