CrPC Section 421: Warrant for Levy of Fine
This section of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) deals with the issuance of a warrant for the levy of a fine imposed by a court in a criminal case. It outlines the process for enforcing the payment of the fine.
Explanation:
When a court convicts an accused person and imposes a fine, the fine becomes a legal debt owed to the state. Section 421 of the CrPC empowers the court to issue a warrant to the appropriate authority (usually the police) to collect the fine. This warrant authorizes the authority to seize the property of the accused and sell it to recover the fine amount.
Illustration:
Imagine a person is convicted of driving under the influence of alcohol. The court imposes a fine of ₹10,000 on him. If he fails to pay the fine, the court can issue a warrant under Section 421 to the police. The police can then seize the accused’s car (or any other property) and sell it to recover the ₹10,000 fine.
Common Questions and Answers:
Q: What happens if the accused cannot pay the fine?
A: The court may allow the accused to pay the fine in installments. If the accused is unable to pay even in installments, they may be imprisoned until the fine is paid, but the maximum period of imprisonment cannot exceed the period prescribed by law.
Q: Can the accused challenge the warrant?
A: Yes, the accused can challenge the warrant in court. They can argue that the fine was unjustly imposed or that they are unable to pay it.
Q: What if the accused is not found?
A: In such cases, the court may issue a warrant of attachment to seize the property of the accused and sell it to recover the fine.
