Criminal Laws in India

An overview of the key aspects of criminal law

Definition

Criminal law refers to the body of laws that deal with acts that are considered offenses against society, the state, or the public. These laws outline punishments for those who commit crimes, with the primary goal of maintaining law and order.

Types of Crimes

Petty Crimes: Minor offenses like traffic violations or public nuisance.
White-collar Crimes: Non-violent crimes like fraud, embezzlement, and bribery.
Violent Crimes: Crimes involving harm to individuals, such as murder, assault, or rape.
Cyber Crimes: Offenses using digital means like hacking, phishing, and cyberbullying.

Major Criminal Law Acts

Indian Penal Code (IPC), 1860: The main criminal code of India which defines crimes and punishments.
Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC), 1973: Details the procedure for criminal investigation and trial.
Indian Evidence Act, 1872: Governs admissibility of evidence in court.
Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act (POCSO), 2012
Information Technology Act, 2000: Deals with cyber crimes and electronic offenses.

Criminal Procedure

Filing of FIR (First Information Report)
Police Investigation
Arrest of the accused (if needed)
Filing of charge sheet
Trial in court
Judgment and sentencing

Case Examples

Nirbhaya Case (2012): One of the most well-known criminal cases involving gang rape and murder in Delhi. It led to major reforms in criminal law related to sexual offenses.

2G Spectrum Case: A famous white-collar crime case involving alleged telecom licensing fraud.