Introduction to Section 286 BNSS
Section 286 BNSS is about record-keeping in summary trials. Even though summary trials are quick and simple, they still need proper official records. This section makes sure that all important details of the case, the parties involved, and the court’s decision are properly written down. It helps courts maintain a clear, transparent, and trustworthy legal process.
What is BNSS Section 286 ?
BNSS Section 286 explains how summary trials should be recorded by the Magistrate. Even though these trials are fast, the important details of the case must be written properly. The State Government decides what format should be used for this record. It helps courts maintain clear and official documents of the trial.
BNSS Section of 286 in Simple Points
1) Complete Details of the Case
BNSS 286 requires that every summary trial should have complete details recorded. This includes the serial number of the case, date of offence, and when the complaint was filed. It also includes names and addresses of the accused and complainant. This helps to maintain a proper official record of what exactly happened. Having such details written clearly helps in checking the fairness of the trial. It makes the process more transparent and accountable.
2) Information About the Offence
Under BNSS 286, the exact offence complained of and the offence proved must be recorded. If the case is about theft of property under ₹20,000, that amount also needs to be written. This ensures that no confusion happens later about what crime was charged and what was proven. Everything is clearly mentioned so that both parties understand the judgment. This protects the rights of the accused and complainant equally.
3) Plea of the Accused
The plea of the accused (whether guilty or not guilty) and any statement made during the trial is also written in the official record. This makes sure that the version of the accused is also available on paper for reference. If there are future disputes, this record can be shown in court as evidence. Recording this properly avoids misunderstanding or bias later. It builds fairness and respect for the court’s process.
4) Final Decision and Punishment
BNSS 286 also ensures that the finding of the trial (whether the accused is guilty or innocent) and the punishment or final order must be written in the record. This makes sure the official judgment of the case is clear. It removes the chance of manipulation or confusion about what decision the court gave. This record becomes part of official court files for future reference. It protects justice and fairness in summary trials.
5) Closing Date of Trial
Lastly, BNSS 286 requires that the date when the trial finished must be clearly mentioned. This shows how long the trial took and ensures that it was handled within a reasonable time. If any higher court needs to check the record, they will know when the case ended. Having the closing date helps track cases properly and maintain speed in justice delivery. It completes the full story of the case on official paper.
Section 286 of BNSS Overview
BNSS 286 explains that during every summary trial, the Magistrate must maintain a detailed record of the case. The State Government decides the format of this record. This helps courts track the case, the people involved, the charge, the decision, and the punishment (if any). Even if the trial is fast, official paperwork is required to keep the justice system fair and accountable.
BNSS Section 286 – 10 Key Points
1. Purpose of Record in Summary Trials
BNSS Section 286 talks about how records must be maintained during summary trials. Even though these are fast-track cases, proper details of the case should still be written down. It ensures that nothing is missed and the trial is conducted transparently. This protects the rights of the accused by ensuring a clear record of what happened. The Magistrate is responsible for making this record. Without proper records, it can lead to confusion or injustice. This section ensures that even simple trials are officially documented.
2. Role of State Government in Record Format
According to BNSS 286, the State Government has the power to decide what format should be used for keeping these records. This allows flexibility for each state depending on their systems. It could be written forms or digital formats, depending on the technology available. The form helps in collecting all the important details neatly and systematically. This makes the entire legal process professional even for small cases. The State’s directions must be followed by Magistrates while entering records. This makes the system organized and efficient.
3. Serial Number and Dates in the Record
One of the main things the Magistrate must record is the serial number of the case. It is important for keeping track of how many summary trials have been conducted. The date of the offence and the date of the complaint are also essential. These details show how much time passed before the trial started. This ensures that courts don’t delay simple cases unnecessarily. Having these dates also helps in future references. This process makes the handling of minor cases more accountable.
4. Information about Parties Involved
The names of both the complainant and the accused must be entered in the record. This includes parentage and residence of the accused, ensuring full identification. If there is no complainant, that must also be noted. This makes sure that every person linked to the case is clearly mentioned. By having these details written, courts prevent mistaken identity or false cases from happening. It also helps future courts or officials to verify the details easily if needed. Transparency and clarity are maintained through this process.
5. Details of the Offence and Property
The Magistrate must clearly mention what offence has been complained of and what offence has been proven during the trial. In cases of theft or property offences, the value of the property must be recorded. This is particularly important for cases related to Sections 303, 305, or 306 mentioned earlier. Knowing the value helps determine if the offence qualifies for summary trial. Without this record, someone could misuse the process for larger crimes. This keeps the summary trial procedure clean and fair for minor offences only.
6. Plea and Examination of the Accused
BNSS 286 requires that the plea of the accused should be properly recorded. If the accused admits guilt or denies it, it must be written down. If the accused is examined by the court, that must also be recorded. This step protects the rights of the accused, making sure they were given a proper opportunity to speak. It avoids any future claim that the trial was unfair. Recording this ensures that judges do not ignore the accused’s statement. It builds trust in the legal process.
7. Recording of Court’s Finding
Once the trial is done, the Magistrate’s decision or finding must be entered. This means whether the accused is found guilty or innocent. Recording the finding is important to show that the trial reached a clear conclusion. Without this, there could be confusion later about the result of the case. This process protects both the court and the accused. It shows that justice was properly delivered and no shortcuts were taken. Even in small cases, fairness must be documented properly.
8. Mention of Sentence or Final Order
If the accused is found guilty, the punishment or final order of the court must be written clearly. BNSS 286 requires that this part of the record is precise and unambiguous. This avoids any confusion regarding what punishment was given. The accused has a right to know exactly what decision was made about them. By recording this properly, the court keeps a clear official record for future reference. This step prevents mistakes or unnecessary disputes later on.
9. Termination Date of Proceedings
The date on which the trial ends must also be entered in the record. This allows tracking of how long the case took to complete. It helps ensure that summary trials are completed quickly, as they are meant for minor offences only. If a case takes longer than expected, this date helps in identifying delays. It also helps higher courts or officials to monitor the efficiency of Magistrates handling these cases. Overall, it helps courts in maintaining a smooth and timely trial process.
10. Importance of BNSS 286 in Legal System
BNSS Section 286 is very important for maintaining official records of summary trials. Even though these cases are small and supposed to be quick, proper records ensure accountability. Without these records, courts could misuse summary trials or make errors unknowingly. This section protects the rights of both complainants and accused. It brings order and clarity to fast-track justice. In a country like India, with millions of pending cases, this law helps courts balance speed with responsibility, making justice quicker yet careful.
Example 1:
Ravi was caught stealing a mobile phone worth ₹5,000. The Magistrate tried the case summarily. Under BNSS 286, details like Ravi’s name, address, the date of theft, plea of Ravi, punishment (fine ₹2,000) were recorded in the official court register.
Example 2:
Seema insulted her neighbor and was tried for provoking breach of peace. The Magistrate recorded the complaint date, Seema’s denial, the statements of both parties, and final fine of ₹500 in the official summary trial record, following BNSS 286.
Section 286 of BNSS Short Information
| No. | Key Point | Simple Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Complete Case Details | The Magistrate must record serial number, date of offence, complaint date, and names/addresses of accused and complainant for clarity. |
| 2 | Offence Charged & Proven | The record must clearly show what offence was complained of and what offence was actually proved, including value of property in theft cases. |
| 3 | Plea of the Accused | Whether the accused pleaded guilty or not guilty must be written. Any statement made by the accused must also be recorded properly. |
| 4 | Final Order & Punishment | The Magistrate must record whether the accused was found guilty or innocent, along with the exact punishment or final order passed. |
| 5 | Date of Trial Completion | The final closing date of the trial must be mentioned to track how long the summary case took and maintain transparency. |
BNSS Section 286 FAQs
BNSS 286
Conclusion
BNSS Section 286 ensures that every summary trial has a complete, clear, and official record. Even though these trials are fast, all details like offence, plea, findings, and dates must be written properly for transparency, fairness, and future reference.
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