Section 252 CrPC: Conviction on plea of guilty

Chapter XX

Admission of Guilt, conviction, Criminal procedure, Magistrate's discretion, plea of guilty, recording of plea, summary trial, voluntary plea

New Law Update (2024)

Section 263 BNSS

TRIAL COURT

Magistrate Court

Punishment

Procedural – Judgment / Sentencing

Cognizable?

Bailable?

Compoundable?

Bare Act Text

If the accused pleads guilty, the Magistrate shall record the plea as nearly as possible in the words used by the accused and may, in his discretion, convict him thereon.

Important Sub-Sections Explained

Landmark Judgements

State of U.P. v. Chandrika (2000):

The Supreme Court emphasized that merely recording a plea of guilty is insufficient; the Magistrate must satisfy himself that the plea is voluntary, unequivocal, and made with a clear understanding of its implications before exercising the discretion to convict.

Shoran Singh v. State of U.P. (1993):

This judgment reiterated the necessity for the Magistrate to record the plea of guilty in the exact words of the accused and ensure that the accused comprehends the nature of the charge and the consequences arising from such a plea.

Chapter XX