Magistrate Can Name Custodial Death Accused

In a significant development, it has been clarified that a magistrate has the authority to name individuals responsible for custodial deaths. This power is vested in the magistrate under Section 176(1A) of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC). The provision enables the magistrate to direct the registration of a First Information Report (FIR) in cases of custodial deaths, ensuring a thorough investigation into such incidents. This move is expected to bring about greater accountability in cases where individuals die in custody. The clarification on the magistrate's powers is likely to have far-reaching implications for the criminal justice system in the country.