Charge Sheet (Section 193)
Definition
The police report at the close of investigation, filed within 60 or 90 days of arrest depending on the punishment band. Forensic reports are annexed here.
- Provision
- Section 193, BNSS 2023
- Filed by
- Police, at close of investigation
- Filing window
- 60 or 90 days from arrest, by punishment band
- Includes
- Forensic reports as annexures
Common questions
Why does the filing deadline vary between 60 and 90 days?+
The BNSS ties the deadline to the severity of the offence, allowing a longer 90-day window for offences carrying heavier punishment where investigation is typically more complex, and a shorter 60-day window for lesser offences.
What happens if forensic reports are not ready by the filing deadline?+
Delays in forensic analysis can force investigators to file the charge sheet with pending reports or seek an extension, and a missed statutory deadline can itself become grounds for the accused to seek default bail.
Related terms
- BNSS 2023
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