Section 178
ActIn forceProvision 186 of 411
Section 178
(1)
When the Court is ready to commence the trial, the accused shall appear or be brought before it and the charge shall be read and explained to him and he shall be asked whether he is guilty of the offence charged or claims to be tried.
(2)
If the accused pleads guilty the plea shall be recorded, and he may be convicted on it:
Provided that before a plea of guilty is recorded the Court shall ascertain that the accused understands the nature and consequences of his plea and intends to admit, without qualification, the offence alleged against him.
Criminal Procedure Code 131
(3)
If the accused refuses to plead or does not plead, or if he claims to be tried, the Court shall proceed to try the case.