Every criminal case goes through three stages: investigation, inquiry, and trial. A verdict is then rendered based on the evidence, witness statements, and other essential and acceptable information.

Section 173 of the Criminal Procedure Core, 1973, or CrPC requires the submission of a final report following the completion of the initial investigation by law enforcement personnel.

If no criminal findings throughout the inquiry, a chargesheet or closure report may be the result of the investigation. On the other hand, if the magistrate thinks it appropriate, it may proceed with the case or rearrange the investigation.

This article will explain in detail about the chargesheet and the step-by-step procedure to get a copy of the chargesheet online.

What is a Chargesheet?

An official police record that lists each person taken into custody, the charges against them, and the identities of the accusers is known as a chargesheet.

According to Section 173 CrPC, a chargesheet is the last report that an investigating agency or police officer prepares after finishing a case's investigation.

Under section 173(2) of the CrPC, the Supreme Court decided in the K Veeraswami v. Union of India & Others (1991) case that the chargesheet constitutes the police officer's final report.

The Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act of 1985 and other specific acts related to criminal offenses in India include references to "chargesheets" in the procedural law (CrPC).

Time Limit for Filing Chargesheet

Section 167(2) of the CrPC states that the deadlines for submitting a charge sheet have a connection with the accused's arrest in the case. The charge sheet needs to be submitted in lower court proceedings within sixty days after the accused person's detention. It is to be filed no later than ninety days in matters heard by unusual session courts.

Step-by-Step Procedure to Get a Chargesheet Copy Online

The legal process to obtain a copy of the chargesheet usually involves steps that differ according to your jurisdiction. The following are basic actions you might consider. However, remember that for advice that fits your particular circumstances, you must consult with a local authority or legal expert:

Contact the Police Station or Investigating Agency: To view the chargesheet, go to the police station or give them a call. Ask for details on how to get a copy of the charge sheet.

Visit the Court: You might need to go to the appropriate court where the chargesheet was filed if the matter has gone to trial. Consult the court clerk or the appointed individual who is in charge of issuing copies of court records.

Request for Information (RTI): To get a copy of the chargesheet, you must submit a Request for Information (RTI) in India. Get information from the relevant police department's official website or submit an RTI application to the appropriate court.

Online Portals: Certain jurisdictions may provide online portals or systems where you can obtain case-related legal documents.  If you want to view chargesheets online, check the official website of the court or the police department.

For example, the Supreme Court of India provides an online portal called "Supreme Court e-Committee Portal" where users can access case status and orders.

Some police departments also have online portals where they provide access to chargesheets and other legal documents related to ongoing investigations or cases. These portals may require you to provide case details or register for an account.

Example: The Delhi Police has an online portal called "DELHI POLICE Shanti Sewa Nyay" where citizens can access various services including filing complaints and accessing FIR copies.

Legal Representation: You should consider getting legal counsel if you are a party to the dispute. You may ask for and get a copy of the chargesheet through your attorney. If you are having difficulties or are dealing with complicated legal matters, you should consider getting expert legal assistance. They can advise you on the right course of action to take to receive the chargesheet.

Benefits of Chargesheet

The charge sheet is a crucial document that starts criminal proceedings against a defendant and offers several advantages that aid judges in making decisions.

• All of the other witnesses and the accused's comments are present in it.
• It formally initiates a criminal trial.
• It is necessary to file certain charges against the defendant.
• The clear explanation of offenses in the chargesheet facilitates the accused's request for release.

Note: Seeking legal counsel from experts who can customize their recommendations to your particular circumstances is essential. Remember that depending on local laws and regulations, there may be significant variations in the processes required and the accessibility of online copies.