Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The question asks for the primary purpose and scope of the Code of Criminal Procedure (Cr.P.C.), 1973. It is essential to understand the distinction between substantive law (which defines rights and offences) and procedural law (which provides the mechanism for enforcing them).
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
The Cr.P.C. is the primary legislation in India that governs the procedure for the administration of criminal law.
- Statement (A) says the Code provides the procedure for implementing the criminal justice system. This is a broad and accurate description. The criminal justice system involves police, prosecutors, courts, and correctional institutions, and the Cr.P.C. lays down the procedures for all of them.
- Statement (B) says it provides the mechanism for investigation into and trial of offences. This is also correct and more specific. The Cr.P.C. details how an FIR is lodged, how police investigate, how evidence is collected, how charges are framed, how a trial is conducted, and the processes for appeal and revision.
- Statement (C) is incorrect as the Cr.P.C. deals with criminal justice, not the civil justice system, which is governed by the Code of Civil Procedure (C.P.C.).
Since both (A) and (B) accurately describe the functions of the Cr.P.C., the combined option (D) is the most comprehensive and correct answer.
Step 3: Final Answer:
The Code of Criminal Procedure provides the overall procedure for the criminal justice system, which includes the specific mechanisms for investigation and trial. Therefore, option (D) is the correct answer.