What Is BNSS Section 434?

Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023 - Section 434: Finality of judgments and orders on appeal

Judgments and orders passed by an Appellate Court upon an appeal shall be final, except in the cases provided for in section 418, section 419, sub-section (4) of section 425, or Chapter XXXII:

Provided that notwithstanding the final disposal of an appeal against conviction in any case, the Appellate Court may hear and dispose of, on the merits—

• (a) an appeal against acquittal under section 419, arising out of the same case, or
• (b) an appeal for the enhancement of sentence under section 418, arising out of the same case.

Brefe Detail

Section 434 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023, establishes that judgments and orders made by an Appellate Court are generally final. However, there are exceptions for specific sections, allowing for further appeals under certain circumstances, such as appeals against acquittal or for sentence enhancement arising from the same case.

Question & Answers

Q1: What is the general rule regarding judgments and orders passed by an Appellate Court?

A1: Judgments and orders passed by an Appellate Court upon an appeal are final, except in specific cases outlined in certain sections.

Q2: What exceptions allow for further appeals despite the finality of judgments?

A2: Exceptions include appeals against acquittal under section 419 and appeals for enhancement of sentence under section 418, arising from the same case.

Q3: Are there any specific sections mentioned that provide exceptions to the finality rule?

A3: Yes, the exceptions are provided for in section 418, section 419, sub-section (4) of section 425, or Chapter XXXII.

Q4: Can an Appellate Court hear an appeal after a conviction has been finalized?

A4: Yes, the Appellate Court may still hear appeals against acquittal or for sentence enhancement even after a conviction has been finalized.

Example

1. Example of Appeal Against Acquittal: If a defendant is acquitted in a criminal case, the prosecution can appeal the acquittal under section 419 if they believe the acquittal was unjust.

2. Example of Enhancement of Sentence: If a defendant receives a sentence that the prosecution believes is too lenient, they may file an appeal for enhancement under section 418, even after the initial judgment is considered final.

3. Example of Finality: After an appeal is decided by the Appellate Court, the decisions made regarding the case are generally not subject to further appeal unless they fall under the specific exceptions outlined in this section.

Summary

Section 434 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023, reinforces the finality of judgments and orders made by Appellate Courts. However, it allows for exceptions in cases of acquittal or sentence enhancement, ensuring that the judicial process remains flexible for addressing potential injustices.