Which law specifically governs the conduct and procedures for prosecution in criminal cases in India?

The Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973 is the primary legislation that outlines the procedures and conduct for the prosecution of criminal cases in India. It establishes the framework for the administration of criminal law, detailing how police investigations must be conducted, how arrests are to be made, and the processes that must be followed from the investigation stage through to the trial and appeal stages.

This code covers vital aspects such as the rights of the accused, the powers of the police and the courts, and the procedures for a fair trial, ensuring that justice is served while safeguarding individual rights. Its comprehensive structure provides a clear pathway for addressing criminal offenses, making it an essential piece of legislation in the realm of criminal justice.

In contrast, the Indian Penal Code, 1860 defines the various criminal offenses and their corresponding punishments but does not govern the procedural aspects of how these offenses are prosecuted. The Consumer Protection Act, 1986 focuses primarily on the protection of consumer rights rather than criminal law, and the Transfer of Property Act, 1882 deals with the regulations pertaining to the transfer of property, which is unrelated to criminal prosecution. Therefore, the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973 is unequivocally the correct answer when it comes to the laws governing prosecution procedures