Indian Company Master Data Made Simple

Skip to main content

Cognizable Offense

3 min read

Quick Summary

A cognizable offense is a serious criminal offense where a police officer has the authority to make an arrest without a warrant and to start an investigation without the prior permission of a magistrate.

A cognizable offense is a serious criminal offense where a police officer has the authority to make an arrest without a warrant and to start an investigation without the prior permission of a magistrate.

Key Characteristics

  • Police can arrest without warrant
  • Police can investigate without magistrate permission
  • Serious offenses punishable with 3+ years imprisonment

Legal Framework

Police have duty to investigate

Key Points

  • Police can arrest without warrant
  • Police can investigate without magistrate permission
  • Serious offenses punishable with 3+ years imprisonment
  • Includes murder, rape, robbery, dacoity
  • FIR must be registered under Section 154 CrPC
  • Police have duty to investigate

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between cognizable and non-cognizable offenses?

Can police refuse to register a cognizable offense FIR?

Is bail available in cognizable offenses?

Where can I find the list of cognizable offenses?