BNSS Section 159 — Power of Magistrate to furnish written instructions, etc

Summary

If a Magistrate orders a local investigation under section 158, the Magistrate can give the person conducting the investigation written instructions to guide them, and can decide who will pay for the investigation's expenses. The report from that person can be used as evidence in the case. If the Magistrate calls and questions an expert under section 158, the Magistrate can also decide who will pay for the costs of summoning and examining that expert.

Official Text

(1) Where the Magistrate directs a local investigation by any person under section 158, the Magistrate may—

(a) furnish such person with such written instructions as may seem necessary for his guidance;

(b) declare by whom the whole or any part of the necessary expenses of the local investigation shall be paid.

(2) The report of such person may be read as evidence in the case.

(3) Where the Magistrate summons and examines an expert under section 158, the Magistrate may direct by whom the costs of such summoning and examination shall be paid.

Related Judgments

• SC (2025) Vol.5 p.730 — Supreme Court of India (2025)
• SC (2025) Vol.6 p.545 — Supreme Court of India (2025)
• SC (2024) Vol.7 p.979 — Supreme Court of India (2024)
• SC (2025) Vol.11 p.291 — Supreme Court of India (2025)
• SC (2025) Vol.3 p.1309 — Supreme Court of India (2025)
• SC (2025) Vol.1 p.1469 — Supreme Court of India (2025)
• .. Petitioner/Accused No.12 vs The State of Tamilnadu, — Madras High Court ()
• SC (2025) Vol.2 p.1588 — Supreme Court of India (2025)

Old <-> New Code Mapping

• CrPC §140 — Power of Magistrate to furnish written instructions, etc