Code
(1)Where any document is filed before any Court by the prosecution or the accused, the particulars of every such document shall be included in a list and the prosecution or the accused, as the case may be, or the pleader for the prosecution or the accused, if any, shall be called upon to admit or deny the genuineness of each such document.
(2) The list of documents shall be in such form as be prescribed by the State Government.
(3) Where the genuineness of any document is not disputed, such document may be read in evidence in inquiry, trial or other proceeding under this Code without proof of the signature of the person to whom it purports to be signed:
Provided that the Court may, in its discretion, require such signature to be proved.
Explain it
Section 294 CrPC aims to simplify legal proceedings by streamlining the process of proving certain documents. The section specifies that in cases involving:
- Public documents, such as government records
- Documents that are produced by a public officer in his official capacity
- Documents that are registered under the law
- Documents that are required to be stamped under the law
formal proof is not necessary.
The law considers the title of such documents as sufficient evidence of their authenticity. This means that the court will accept the document without requiring further verification or proof.
Illustrate it
Consider a case where a lawyer presents a copy of a birth certificate in court. This birth certificate is a public document that is registered under the law. According to Section 294 CrPC, the lawyer only needs to present the certificate with its title. The court will then accept the document as authentic without requiring further proof.
Common Questions and Answers
Q: What is the purpose of Section 294 CrPC?
A: Section 294 CrPC streamlines the legal process by simplifying the proof of certain documents. It aims to reduce unnecessary delays and burdens on the court.
Q: Does Section 294 CrPC apply to all documents?
A: No, Section 294 CrPC only applies to certain specific categories of documents such as public documents, registered documents, or documents that are required to be stamped under the law.
Q: What is the advantage of using Section 294 CrPC?
A: Using Section 294 CrPC allows for a quicker and more efficient process of presenting evidence. It saves time and resources by eliminating the need for formal proof.
