Code: Section 299 BNSS
299.
Notwithstanding anything contained in any law for the time being in force, the statements or facts stated by an accused in an application for plea bargaining filed under Section 290 shall not be used for any other purpose except for the purpose of this Chapter.
Explanation of Section 299 BNSS
Section 299 of the BNSS ensures that any statements made by the accused during the plea bargaining process under Section 290 cannot be used against them for any purpose other than for proceedings related to plea bargaining within the same Chapter. This provision offers protection to the accused during the plea bargaining process, ensuring that statements made in good faith for negotiations cannot be used as evidence in the trial or for other legal purposes.
Illustration
Example 1: Protection of Statements
An accused person files an application for plea bargaining under Section 290 and makes certain statements regarding the offense. These statements cannot be used against them later in the trial, even if they do not reach an agreement in the plea bargain.
Example 2: Plea Bargaining in Practice
A defendant pleads guilty in an attempt to reach a plea bargain. The statements made during this process cannot be used in court against them, ensuring that the accused is protected while negotiating a deal.
Common Questions and Answers on Section 299 BNSS
1. Can the statements made in plea bargaining be used in trial?
- Answer: No, according to Section 299, the statements made by the accused in the plea bargaining process cannot be used for any purpose other than for that specific chapter and negotiations.
2. What is the main purpose of Section 299?
- Answer: The main purpose of Section 299 is to protect the accused during plea bargaining, ensuring that anything said during the negotiation cannot later be used as evidence against them in trial.
3. Can statements made under plea bargaining be used in future legal proceedings?
- Answer: No, statements made during plea bargaining are protected under Section 299 and cannot be used in any future proceedings outside of the plea bargaining context.
Conclusion
Section 299 of the BNSS safeguards the accused in plea bargaining by ensuring that any statements made during the process cannot be used outside of that specific procedure. This ensures a fairer process for the accused while attempting to negotiate a settlement in their case.
