CrPC Section 47

CrPC Section 47 provides the legal framework for conducting medical examinations of accused individuals in custody. This section ensures that the health of the accused is monitored and any injuries or conditions are documented. Understanding this section is crucial for protecting the rights of the accused and maintaining transparency in the criminal justice process.

The medical examination under this section helps prevent torture or mistreatment while in custody. It also serves as evidence in court regarding the physical condition of the accused at the time of arrest or detention. Familiarity with this provision is essential for police, medical professionals, and legal practitioners.

CrPC Section 47 – Exact Provision

This section mandates that any person arrested and detained must be medically examined promptly. The examination is to be conducted by a qualified medical officer appointed by the State Government. The Magistrate may also order subsequent medical examinations at specified intervals. This procedure safeguards the accused’s health and ensures any injuries are properly recorded.

• Medical examination is compulsory upon arrest and detention.

• Examination must be done by a State-appointed medical officer.

• Magistrate can order further examinations as needed.

• Protects accused from physical harm or torture.

• Documents health status for legal and evidentiary purposes.

Explanation of CrPC Section 47

Simply put, Section 47 requires that anyone arrested must be checked by a doctor to ensure they are healthy and unharmed. This helps prevent abuse and keeps a record of their condition.

• The section states medical exams must happen when a person is arrested and detained.

• It affects the accused, police, medical officers, and magistrates.

• Triggering event is the arrest and custody of a person.

• Police must arrange the medical examination promptly.

• It prohibits ignoring the health of the accused or delaying the exam.

Purpose and Rationale of CrPC Section 47

This section exists to protect the physical wellbeing of arrested persons and uphold human rights. It ensures that any injuries or health issues are identified early, preventing torture or neglect. The provision balances police powers with safeguards for the accused’s dignity and legal rights.

• Protects the accused’s health and rights.

• Ensures proper procedure in custody management.

• Balances authority of police with citizen protections.

• Prevents abuse and documents physical condition.

When CrPC Section 47 Applies

Section 47 applies immediately upon arrest and detention of any person. It continues to apply during custody as directed by the Magistrate for further examinations.

• Applies when a person is arrested and detained.

• Police officers or custodians have authority to arrange exams.

• Medical officers appointed by the State conduct exams.

• Magistrate can order additional exams at intervals.

• No exceptions for any arrested individual regardless of offence.

Cognizance under CrPC Section 47

Cognizance here involves the Magistrate overseeing the custody and ensuring medical examinations are conducted. The police must inform the Magistrate if the accused requires medical attention. The Magistrate can order further exams to monitor health during detention.

• Police notify Magistrate about the accused’s health status.

• Magistrate orders medical examinations as needed.

• Medical reports are submitted to the Magistrate for record.

Bailability under CrPC Section 47

Section 47 itself does not determine bailability but relates to the health of the accused during custody. However, medical examination results can influence bail decisions if health concerns arise. The accused’s well-being is a factor courts may consider.

• Section does not specify bailability.

• Health reports may support bail applications.

• Courts consider medical condition when granting bail.

Triable By (Court Jurisdiction for CrPC Section 47)

Section 47 does not define trial jurisdiction but applies during pre-trial custody. The Magistrate overseeing the case ensures compliance. Trials proceed in courts competent for the offence charged, typically Magistrate or Sessions Courts.

• Magistrate supervises medical examinations during custody.

• Trial jurisdiction depends on the offence involved.

• Medical reports submitted to the trial court as evidence if relevant.

Appeal and Revision Path under CrPC Section 47

There is no direct appeal against Section 47 itself, as it is procedural. However, if medical examination rights are violated, affected parties may seek remedy through higher courts via revision or writ petitions. Courts ensure compliance with this provision.

• No specific appeal against medical examination orders.

• Violation of rights may be challenged in High Courts or Supreme Court.

• Revision petitions can address procedural lapses.

Example of CrPC Section 47 in Practical Use

Person X is arrested on suspicion of theft. Upon arrest, the police immediately arrange for a medical examination by a government doctor as per Section 47. The doctor finds minor injuries consistent with the arrest. The report is submitted to the Magistrate, ensuring X’s health is documented and no mistreatment occurred. Later, the Magistrate orders a follow-up examination during custody to monitor X’s condition.

• Section 47 ensured X’s health was checked and recorded.

• Key takeaway: protects accused from abuse and maintains transparency.

Historical Relevance of CrPC Section 47

Section 47 has evolved to strengthen protections for arrested persons. Originally, medical examinations were less regulated, leading to abuses. Amendments have clarified the role of medical officers and Magistrates, emphasizing timely and repeated examinations.

• Early CrPC versions lacked clear medical exam provisions.

• Amendments enhanced safeguards against torture.

• State appointment of medical officers was formalized.

Modern Relevance of CrPC Section 47

In 2026, Section 47 remains vital for human rights in policing. It supports forensic evidence collection and ensures detainees’ health is respected. Modern concerns include mental health checks and use of technology in medical reporting, expanding the section’s practical scope.

• Supports forensic and health documentation in custody.

• Ensures compliance with human rights standards.

• Incorporates mental health and digital medical records.

Related Sections to CrPC Section 47

• Section 46 – Arrest procedures and rights

• Section 50 – Information to arrested person

• Section 54 – Medical examination of rape victims

• Section 164 – Recording of confessions and statements

• Section 167 – Detention and custody rules

Case References under CrPC Section 47

1. Joginder Kumar v. State of UP (1994, 4 SCC 260)

   – Emphasized the necessity of medical examination to prevent custodial torture.

2. DK Basu v. State of West Bengal (1997, 1 SCC 416)

   – Laid down guidelines for arrest and detention including medical examination.

3. Sheela Barse v. Union of India (1986, 3 SCC 596)

   – Highlighted the importance of medical checks for detainees to prevent abuse.

Key Facts Summary for CrPC Section 47

• Section:

  47

• Title:

  Medical Examination of Accused

• Nature:

  Procedural safeguard

• Applies To:

  Police, Magistrate, Accused

• Cognizance:

  Magistrate orders and supervises medical exams

• Bailability:

  Not specified; health may influence bail

• Triable By:

  Magistrate/Sessions Courts depending on offence

Conclusion on CrPC Section 47

CrPC Section 47 plays a critical role in protecting the health and rights of accused persons during custody. It mandates timely medical examinations to prevent abuse and document physical conditions. This ensures transparency and accountability in the criminal justice system.

By involving medical officers and Magistrates, the section balances police authority with human rights. It fosters trust in law enforcement and safeguards dignity, making it an essential provision for fair treatment of accused individuals in India.

FAQs on CrPC Section 47

What is the main purpose of CrPC Section 47?

The main purpose is to ensure that any person arrested and detained undergoes a medical examination to protect their health and prevent mistreatment while in custody.

Who conducts the medical examination under Section 47?

A medical officer appointed by the State Government is responsible for examining the arrested person as per the section’s requirements.

Can the Magistrate order more than one medical examination?

Yes, the Magistrate may direct further medical examinations at intervals to monitor the accused’s health during detention.

Does Section 47 affect the bail rights of the accused?

While Section 47 does not directly address bail, medical reports can influence bail decisions if the accused’s health is a concern.

What happens if the police fail to arrange a medical examination?

Failure to conduct the medical examination can be challenged legally as a violation of the accused’s rights and may lead to court intervention or remedies.