Magistrate suo-moto cannot pass an order for further investigation in a criminal case.
This article provides the Supreme Court’s ruling in Bikash Ranjan Rout v. State (NCT of Delhi), where the Court held that a Magistrate cannot suo motu order further investigation after discharging an accused. The judgment clarifies the limits of a Magistrate’s powers post-cognizance, distinguishes between pre- and post-cognizance stages, and reaffirms that only the investigating agency may seek permission for further investigation under Section 173(8) CrPC.