Filing of Application:

• A person accused of an offence may apply for plea bargaining in the Court where the trial is pending.

Contents of the Application:

• A brief description of the case, including the offence involved.
• An affidavit sworn by the accused stating:
  • The application is made voluntarily after understanding the punishment for the offence.
  • The accused has not been previously convicted for the same offence.

Notice & Appearance:

• Upon receiving the application, the Court shall issue notice to:
  • The Public Prosecutor or the complainant, as applicable.
  • The accused, directing them to appear on a fixed date.

In-Camera Examination of the Accused:

• On the scheduled date, the Court shall examine the accused in camera (privately, without the other party present) to ensure the application was filed voluntarily.

Court's Decision:

• If the Court is satisfied that the application is voluntary:
  • It will allow time for the Public Prosecutor/complainant and the accused to negotiate a mutually satisfactory disposition, which may include compensation to the victim and other expenses.
  • A new hearing date is fixed.
• If the Court finds that the application was involuntary or the accused was previously convicted for the same offence:
  • The Court shall proceed with the trial as per the regular provisions of the Code, ignoring the plea bargaining application.