Loading act…

Section 519 of The Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023 — Extension of period of limitation in certain cases

Bare section text

Official Legislative Text

Notwithstanding anything contained in the foregoing provisions of this Chapter, any Court may take cognizance of an offence after the expiry of the period of limitation, if it is satisfied on the facts and in the circumstances of the case that the delay has been properly explained or that it is necessary so to do in the interests of justice.

Educational Study Layer

Summary

This section gives courts the power to accept a case even if the normal deadline for filing it has passed.
A court can extend this time if it is satisfied that the person had a good reason for the delay.
It also allows for an extension if the court believes that hearing the case is necessary for the interests of justice.

Practical examples

1Sunita was unable to file a cheating case on time because she was hospitalized in a remote area without communication for six months. The court uses Section 519 to accept her case late because her delay was properly explained by her medical situation.

2A major environmental crime is reported just after the official deadline. The court decides to hear the case under Section 519, even without a specific excuse for the delay, because the public importance of the matter makes it necessary in the interests of justice.

FAQ

1. Can a court ever ignore the deadline for filing a criminal case in BNSS 2023?

Yes, under Section 519 of The Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023, a court has the power to take cognizance of a case even after the limitation period has expired.

2. What conditions must be met for a court to extend the limitation period under BNSS Section 519?

According to Section 519 of The Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023, the court must be satisfied that the delay was properly explained or that the extension is necessary for justice.

3. Does Section 519 of BNSS 2023 apply if a crime is already considered continuing under Section 518?

Yes, Section 519 of The Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023, acts as an overarching rule that allows for extensions "notwithstanding anything" in the previous sections of the chapter.

Practice Quiz

Q1.Under Section 519 of The Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023, who has the authority to take cognizance of an offence after the limitation period?

Q2.What is one specific reason mentioned in Section 519 of The Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023, that allows for an extension of time?

Q3.Besides a proper explanation, what is the second ground for extending a deadline under Section 519 of The Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023?

Q4.How do Section 518 and Section 519 of The Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023, work together regarding time limits?

518PreviousSection 518 Continuing offence.520NextSection 520 Trials before High Courts.