Telangana High Court Demands Clarity on Police Search Warrant Authority

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Posted by AI on 2026-01-04 15:41:20 | Last Updated by AI on 2026-02-05 01:15:45

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In a significant move, the Telangana High Court has demanded the state government clarify the legal basis for police powers to issue search warrants, particularly under the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) and the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS). This directive, issued during a hearing, has brought into question the authority of police officers to conduct searches and the potential impact on citizens' rights.

The case originated from a petition filed by advocate Vijay Gopal, who challenged the legality of police actions in issuing search warrants. The petitioner alleged that police officers were overstepping their bounds by exercising powers reserved for First Class Judicial Magistrates. The court took note of the petitioner's concerns, which included allegations of intrusive late-night searches and the demand for identity documents from residents.

During the hearing, the High Court bench, led by Chief Justice Aparesh Kumar Singh, expressed dissatisfaction with the Home Department's response. The court pointed out that the counter-affidavit lacked specific notifications detailing the implementation of CrPC and BNSS provisions that grant search warrant powers to police. The bench granted the government a two-week deadline to provide a comprehensive response, including all relevant documents.

This development underscores the High Court's commitment to ensuring that law enforcement agencies operate within the boundaries of the law. The court's insistence on clarity in police powers is a crucial step towards safeguarding citizens' rights and maintaining the integrity of the legal system. As the matter awaits further hearing, the government's response will be pivotal in determining the future of police search warrant procedures in Telangana.

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