CrPC Section 519
CrPC Section 519 – Court may examine accused when case is very serious
Text of Section 519 (simplified):
"When the offence is of a very serious nature, the court may examine the accused before asking them to plead guilty or not guilty, to ensure that the accused fully understands the charge and the consequences of pleading guilty."
Explanation:
Key Concepts:
Accused: The person charged with a criminal offence.
Serious offence: Usually offences that carry severe punishment, such as life imprisonment or death.
Examination by court: The judge may ask questions to make sure the accused understands what they are admitting to.
Purpose of Section 519:
Protects the rights of the accused in serious cases.
Ensures that a guilty plea is informed and voluntary.
Prevents mistakes or coercion in admitting guilt for grave offences.
Procedure under Section 519:
Before accepting a guilty plea, the court may ask the accused:
If they understand the nature of the offence.
If they understand the punishment they might face.
If they are pleading guilty voluntarily, without any pressure.
Only after this examination can the court record the plea and proceed under Section 520.
Legal Effect:
Ensures that the court does not accept a guilty plea blindly in serious offences.
Acts as a safeguard for the accused’s rights.
Helps avoid appeals later on the ground that the guilty plea was not voluntary or informed.
✅ In short:
Section 519 ensures that before a serious offence is admitted as guilty, the court examines the accused to make sure the plea is voluntary, informed, and understood, protecting the accused from wrongful or coerced admissions.
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