Limitation for Cognizance — KSLU Bnss Notes

Limitation for Cognizance

To prevent stale prosecutions, S.514 bars taking cognizance of minor offences after the period of limitation (6 months for fine-only offences; 1 year where the punishment is up to 1 year; 3 years where up to 3 years). However, S.519 empowers the court to condone the delay and take cognizance beyond limitation where it is satisfied, on the facts, that the delay is properly explained or that condonation is in the interests of justice. Offences punishable with more than three years’ imprisonment have no period of limitation.