BNSS Section 173 vs BNSS Section 180

 BNSS Section 173 vs BNSS Section 180

BNSS Section 173	BNSS Section 180
Title: Information in Cognizable Cases	Title: Examination of Witnesses by Police
Stage: Beginning of a criminal case	Stage: During investigation after registration/investigation begins
Purpose: Registration of FIR and procedure for receiving information about a cognizable offence	Purpose: Police examination of witnesses who know facts about the case
Corresponding CrPC Section: 154	Corresponding CrPC Section: 161
Who is involved? Informant/Complainant and Police	Witnesses and Investigating Officer
Key Features: Zero FIR, e-FIR, free copy of FIR, preliminary enquiry (for certain offences punishable with 3–7 years with DSP approval), remedy if FIR is refused. (ApniLaw)	Key Features: Police may orally examine witnesses, statements may be recorded in writing or by audio-video means, witnesses must answer truthfully except self-incriminating questions, statements of certain women victims must be recorded by a woman police officer. (ApniLaw)

Simple Example

Section 173 (FIR Stage)

• A person reports that their motorcycle has been stolen.

• Police receive the complaint and register the FIR (or conduct a preliminary enquiry in eligible cases under BNSS).

• This is governed by Section 173 BNSS. (ApniLaw)

Section 180 (Investigation Stage)

• After the FIR, the Investigating Officer questions:

  • Eye witnesses,

  • Neighbours,

  • CCTV operator,

  • Shopkeepers, etc.

• Their statements are recorded under Section 180 BNSS. (ApniLaw)

Key Difference

• Section 173 = Registration of information/FIR.

• Section 180 = Recording statements of witnesses during investigation.

Flow Chart

Complaint Received
        │
        ▼
BNSS Section 173
(FIR / Zero FIR / Preliminary Enquiry)
        │
        ▼
Investigation Starts
        │
        ▼
BNSS Section 180
(Examination of Witnesses)
        │
        ▼
Further Investigation → Charge Sheet / Final Report