Panchnama is a crucial document facilitating the criminal justice delivery system. The word “Panchnama” is derived from two words: “Panch,” meaning a respectable authority, and “nama,” a written document. It records events in the presence of witnesses, i.e., those seen and heard by the five people, and must have the signatures of two witnesses. Panchnama has a pivotal role in the criminal & civil justice delivery system that adds genuineness and accuracy to the investigating agency. An investigating agency can get rid of justice through what they have recorded during the investigation and written in Panchnama. This vital aspect of criminal investigation corroborates with the proven evidence. The primary role of Panchnama is to support the evidence of the investigation conducted by the appointed body at the crime scene, seizure from the accused, identification of the accused, and much more. The fact-carrying Panchnama is supposed to convince or believe the court that the conducting officer has carried out the investigation properly, including all the facts, search, seizure, etc., and most importantly, by following the court's directions.
We’ve highlighted different kinds of Panchnama to help you understand the subject. Following the guide will provide concrete information on the subject.
List of Different Types of Panchnamas
Different types of Panchnamas are prepared during an Investigation, such as search, seizure, recovery, arrest, etc. These mandatory procedures lay down the foundation of different provisions of the Cr. P.C. As the recent Supreme Court announcement states, the Panchnama document would not be admissible if it violated CrPC section 162. Moreover, some of the Panchnama types are highlighted below.
Panchnama of crime scene investigation
Discover samples from the crime scene for the forensic investigation.
Search and seizure of things or articles of suspected person
Panchnama of the raid upon secret information.
Panchnama during the search in a closed place.
Highlight the physical condition of the accused when arrested.
Panchnama of Seized Property(Muddamal)
The Panchnama of the seized property holds the details of valuable assets such as golden or silver ornaments or any other articles seized from the accused. The investigating officer's sole duty is to record the evidence and findings at the scene of an offense or crime. While performing Muddamal Panchnama, the authorised officer must call two respectable witnesses to the search place before the commencement of the search. Furthermore, the statement can be recorded before and after the commencement of the search to conclude the points.
Conclusion
As highlighted above, “The Panchnama report is documentary evidence used to believe or convince the court about the crime. It is also clear that the investigating officers have properly investigated the case by following the court procedure. The Panchnama document involves five witnesses and the signatures of 2 respected witnesses. If you struggle to get the right information on the Panchnama report, consult with CA Manoj K Pahwa, where the prominent team will address all your queries.