CrPC Section 29
CrPC Section 29 – Sentences which Magistrates may pass
This section defines the sentencing powers of Magistrates in criminal cases. It basically says how much punishment (imprisonment or fine) different types of Magistrates can impose.
Key Provisions:
Chief Judicial Magistrate (CJM)
A CJM may pass any sentence authorized by law, except:
Death sentence
Life imprisonment
Imprisonment exceeding 7 years
Magistrate of the First Class
Can impose:
Imprisonment up to 3 years
Fine up to ₹10,000
Magistrate of the Second Class
Can impose:
Imprisonment up to 1 year
Fine up to ₹5,000
Metropolitan Magistrate
Has the same powers as a Magistrate of the First Class.
Purpose of Section 29
To clearly define limits of judicial powers of different Magistrates.
To ensure that serious punishments like death, life imprisonment, or long-term sentences are handled only by higher courts (Sessions Court).
To maintain a proper hierarchy in the criminal justice system.
Example
If a person is guilty of an offence punishable with imprisonment of 2 years, a Magistrate of First Class can handle it.
But if an offence is punishable with 10 years imprisonment, only a Sessions Judge can pass such a sentence, not a Magistrate.
Conclusion
Section 29 CrPC sets clear limits on the sentencing powers of different classes of Magistrates:
CJM → up to 7 years imprisonment
First Class Magistrate → up to 3 years or ₹10,000 fine
Second Class Magistrate → up to 1 year or ₹5,000 fine
Metropolitan Magistrate → same as First Class Magistrate
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