Important Legal Definitions
Explore legal terms, clear definitions and practical examples.
Taking Cognizance (Section 190 CrPC / Section 210 BNSS)
Criminal Procedure & Jurisprudence Terms
Definition
The judicial application of the mind by a magistrate to the suspected commission of an offence (upon a police report, private complaint, or information) to determine whether sufficient grounds exist to initiate judicial proceedings.
Example
A magistrate reads the chargesheet and forensic documents, determines that prima facie ingredients of cheating are made out, and formally takes cognizance of the offence under Section 190(1)(b) CrPC.