Question

What is the effect of compounding of an offence under Criminal Procedure Code ?

• A. Conviction
• B. Discharge
• C. Acquittal
• D. Pardon

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Under the Criminal Procedure Code, the compounding of an offence refers to a formal agreement to dismiss the charges against the accused. This usually involves the victim agreeing to forgive the perpetrator, often in return for some form of compensation. Compounding is applicable to specified minor offences and is permitted under Section 320 of the Code. The primary effect of compounding an offence is that it leads to the acquittal of the accused.

The result of compounding is distinct from conviction, discharge, or pardon:

• Conviction: The judicial finding that the accused is guilty.
• Discharge: The release of the accused without a conviction due to insufficient evidence.
• Pardon: An act of forgiving the accused, usually by a government official, excusing them from penalties or consequences.

In contrast, acquittal signifies that the accused is formally relieved from the accusations due to the compromise achieved through compounding, making 'Acquittal' the correct answer in this context.