Library/BNSS/Section 168
Section 168Duty/Preventive

Police to prevent cognizable offences

Full Text

Every police officer may interpose for the purpose of preventing, and shall, to the best of his ability, prevent, the commission of any cognizable offence.

Plain English Summary

Section 168 (formerly Section 149 CrPC) mandates all police officers to proactively prevent the commission of cognizable offences.

Key Legal Elements

  • Successor to Section 149 CrPC
  • General duty to prevent cognizable offences
  • Authority to interpose/intervene in potential crimes
  • Duty to act to the best of their ability

Practical Note

This section provides the legal basis for police intervention in public spaces to deter crime.

हिंदी पाठ

प्रत्येक पुलिस अधिकारी के पास किसी भी संज्ञेय अपराध (cognizable offence) को होने से रोकने के लिए हस्तक्षेप करने का अधिकार और कर्तव्य है।