Issue of process.

What this section does

If a Magistrate taking cognizance finds sufficient ground for proceeding, he shall issue summons in a summons-case or may issue a warrant or summons in a warrant-case (including through electronic means); no summons or warrant shall be issued until a list of prosecution witnesses is filed, and in written-complaint proceedings the process must be accompanied by a copy of the complaint. The Magistrate may dismiss the complaint if prescribed process-fees are not paid within a reasonable time.

AI-generated plain-language summary. For the binding statutory text, see India Code (official).

Procedure at a glance

Key actors

Magistrate · Accused · Prosecution witnesses

Derived from CrPC s.204.