Question

Additions or alteration of charges is provided in Cr. PC

• A. U/s. 214
• B. U/s. 215
• C. U/s. 216
• D. U/s. 210

Hint:

Remember the cluster of sections related to Charge: S.211 (Contents of Charge), S.212 (Particulars as to time, place, and person), S.216 (Alteration of Charge), and S.218 (Separate charges for distinct offences).

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
A "charge" in criminal law is a formal accusation of an offence. The Code of Criminal Procedure allows for the charge to be altered or added to at any time during the trial to ensure that the trial is fair and based on the evidence that emerges.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Chapter XVII of the Cr.PC deals with "The Charge". Let's look at the relevant sections:
- Section 216 of Cr.PC is titled "Court may alter charge". It states that any Court may alter or add to any charge at any time before judgment is pronounced. It also lays down the procedure to be followed after such alteration, such as reading and explaining the new charge to the accused and allowing the parties to recall witnesses.
- Section 214 explains that the words used in the charge are to be understood in the sense of the law under which the offence is punishable.
- Section 215 deals with the effect of errors in the charge.
- Section 210 deals with the procedure to be followed when there is a complaint case and police investigation in respect of the same offence.

Step 3: Final Answer:
The provision for the alteration or addition of charges is contained in Section 216 of the Cr.PC.