Criminal Procedure Code · Updated to 1 May 2023 · Chapter XX · Trials Before the High Court
178. Commencement of trial
Feedback & supportWhen 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.
Court
“Court” means the High Court, a Sessions Court, or a Magistrate’s Court of any class, as the context may require;
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.
offence
“offence” means any act or omission made punishable by any law for the time being in force;
Criminal Procedure Code 131
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.