Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973
Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973
XX · Section 251

Substance of accusation to be stated

Synced on 04 Jul 2026Text as per India Code

When in a summons-case the accused appears or is brought before the Magistrate, the particulars of the offence of which he is accused shall be stated to him, and he shall be asked whether he pleads guilty or has any defence to make, but it shall not be necessary to frame a formal charge.

state amendment

Chhattisgarh

In Section 251 of the Principal Act, after the word “bought before the Magistrate” the following shall be added :—

“Or appears through the medium of electronic video linkage in the presence of his pleader in the Court”. [Vide Chhattisgarh Act 13 of 2006, s. 6]

Judgments on Section 251