CrPC Section 344

CrPC Section 344 governs how courts summon witnesses and record their evidence during trials. It ensures that witnesses are properly called to testify, allowing the court to gather relevant facts. Understanding this section helps citizens and legal practitioners appreciate the procedural fairness in criminal trials.

This section plays a crucial role in the criminal justice system by outlining the method for witness examination, which is essential for establishing the truth. It protects the rights of both the accused and the prosecution by ensuring that evidence is collected transparently and systematically.

CrPC Section 344 – Exact Provision

This provision mandates that witnesses summoned to court must be examined under oath or affirmation, ensuring the truthfulness of their testimony. The evidence given is to be recorded according to the court’s procedural rules, maintaining the integrity and formality of the trial process.

• Witnesses must be summoned by the court.

• Examination is conducted on oath or affirmation.

• Evidence is recorded as per court rules.

• Ensures formal and truthful testimony.

• Supports fair trial procedures.

Explanation of CrPC Section 344

Section 344 simply means that when a witness is called to court, they must take an oath and give their evidence, which is then officially recorded. This process helps the court hear facts directly from witnesses in a formal way.

• The section requires witnesses to be examined under oath or affirmation.

• It affects witnesses, the court, and parties involved in the trial.

• Triggered when a witness is summoned to testify.

• The court must record the evidence as per its rules.

• It prohibits informal or unrecorded witness statements during trial.

Purpose and Rationale of CrPC Section 344

This section exists to ensure that witness testimony is given truthfully and formally during trials. It protects the integrity of evidence by requiring an oath, which discourages false statements. The procedure also guarantees that evidence is properly documented for fair judicial consideration.

• Protects the rights of accused and prosecution by formalizing testimony.

• Ensures procedural fairness in recording evidence.

• Balances the need for truthful evidence with witness rights.

• Prevents misuse or fabrication of witness statements.

When CrPC Section 344 Applies

Section 344 applies whenever a witness is summoned to give evidence in a criminal trial. It guides the court on how to conduct the examination and record the testimony properly.

• Applies when a witness is officially summoned by the court.

• The presiding Magistrate or Judge has authority under this section.

• Relevant in all criminal courts conducting trials.

• No specific time limits, but applies during trial proceedings.

• Exceptions may occur if witness testimony is recorded otherwise by law.

Cognizance under CrPC Section 344

Cognizance under Section 344 is taken when the court issues a summons to a witness. The court then examines the witness under oath and records the evidence as part of the trial record. This ensures that witness evidence is officially part of the case file for judicial scrutiny.

• Court issues summons to the witness.

• Witness is examined under oath or affirmation.

• Evidence is recorded and preserved in the trial record.

Bailability under CrPC Section 344

Section 344 itself does not deal with offences or arrest; it focuses on witness examination. Therefore, bailability is not directly applicable here. However, witnesses summoned under this section are expected to appear voluntarily or under court orders.

• No direct provision for bail under this section.

• Witnesses must comply with summons or face legal consequences.

• Practical consideration: witnesses should cooperate to ensure justice.

Triable By (Court Jurisdiction for CrPC Section 344)

Section 344 applies to all criminal courts conducting trials, including Magistrate and Sessions courts. The court that summons the witness is responsible for examining and recording their evidence as per this section.

• Applicable in Magistrate and Sessions courts.

• Trial court conducts witness examination.

• Evidence recorded forms part of trial proceedings.

Appeal and Revision Path under CrPC Section 344

Decisions related to witness examination under Section 344 are part of the trial record and can be challenged through appeals or revisions against the trial court’s judgment. There is no separate appeal against the witness examination itself.

• Appeals lie against final trial court orders.

• Revisions may be sought in High Court for procedural irregularities.

• Typical appeal timelines apply as per criminal procedure.

Example of CrPC Section 344 in Practical Use

Person X is accused of theft. During the trial, the court summons witness Y, who saw the incident. Under Section 344, Y is sworn in and asked to describe what they saw. The court records Y’s testimony, which helps establish facts and supports the judge’s decision.

• The section ensured formal, truthful testimony from witness Y.

• Key takeaway: proper witness examination is vital for fair trials.

Historical Relevance of CrPC Section 344

Section 344 has been part of the CrPC to formalize witness examination in trials. Over time, amendments have refined how evidence is recorded, ensuring clarity and reliability in court proceedings.

• Originally established to standardize witness testimony.

• Amendments improved recording methods and oath procedures.

• Reflects evolving standards of fair trial and evidence law.

Modern Relevance of CrPC Section 344

In 2026, Section 344 remains crucial for ensuring transparent and reliable witness testimony. With digital recording and video conferencing, courts continue to uphold this section’s principles while adapting to new technologies.

• Supports use of electronic evidence recording.

• Ensures witness rights during remote testimony.

• Balances technology with traditional oath and examination.

Related Sections to CrPC Section 344

• Section 315 – Power to summon witnesses

• Section 146 – Examination of witnesses

• Section 164 – Recording confessions and statements

• Section 273 – Evidence in trials

• Section 275 – Examination of witnesses

Case References under CrPC Section 344

1. State of Maharashtra v. Praful B. Desai (1996, AIR 1997 SC 3226)

   – Emphasized the importance of proper witness examination and recording of evidence under CrPC.

2. K. Ramachandra Reddy v. Public Prosecutor (1959, AIR 1959 SC 512)

   – Highlighted the necessity of oath during witness examination for admissibility.

3. No landmark case directly interpreting this section as of 2026.

Key Facts Summary for CrPC Section 344

• Section:

  344

• Title:

  Summoning and Examining Witnesses

• Nature:

  Procedural

• Applies To:

  Court, Witnesses

• Cognizance:

  Summons issued by court, examination under oath

• Bailability:

  Not applicable

• Triable By:

  Magistrate and Sessions Courts

Conclusion on CrPC Section 344

CrPC Section 344 is fundamental to the criminal trial process, ensuring that witnesses are properly summoned, sworn in, and their evidence recorded. This formal procedure safeguards the integrity of the trial and helps courts arrive at just decisions based on reliable testimony.

By mandating oath-taking and systematic recording, the section protects both the rights of the accused and the interests of justice. Understanding this section empowers citizens and legal professionals to appreciate the fairness embedded in criminal proceedings.

FAQs on CrPC Section 344

What is the main purpose of CrPC Section 344?

It ensures witnesses are summoned, examined under oath, and their evidence recorded properly during criminal trials, maintaining the truthfulness and formality of testimony.

Who can summon a witness under this section?

The presiding Magistrate or Judge of the criminal court has the authority to summon witnesses for examination under Section 344.

Is witness testimony under Section 344 voluntary?

Witnesses are legally required to appear when summoned. Failure to comply may lead to legal consequences, but the testimony itself is given voluntarily under oath.

Does Section 344 deal with bail or arrest?

No, this section focuses on witness examination and recording evidence, not on arrest or bail procedures.

Can witness evidence recorded under Section 344 be challenged?

Yes, parties can challenge the credibility or admissibility of witness evidence during trial or on appeal, but the procedure for recording evidence is governed by this section.