CrPC Section 70
Section 70 CrPC – Form of Warrant of Arrest and Duration
This section explains how a warrant of arrest is issued, signed, sealed, and how long it remains valid.
Key Points of Section 70
Form of Warrant
Every warrant of arrest must be in writing.
It must be signed by the presiding officer of the court (usually the Magistrate or Judge).
It must also be sealed with the court’s seal to authenticate it.
Directed to Police Officer
By default, the warrant is directed to one or more police officers for execution.
In some cases, it can also be directed to any other person if the law allows (explained later in other sections).
Continuity / Validity
Once issued, a warrant of arrest remains in force until it is cancelled by the court which issued it, or until it is executed (i.e., the arrest is made).
Unlike summons (which is valid only for a particular date), a warrant does not automatically expire.
Why This Section is Important
It ensures that warrants are authentic, lawful, and properly documented.
Prevents misuse of oral or informal arrest orders.
Ensures that once a warrant is issued, it stays valid unless specifically cancelled.
Example
A Magistrate issues a warrant of arrest against a person accused of theft.
The warrant will be in writing, signed by the Magistrate, and sealed with the court’s seal.
It will be handed over to the police officer for execution.
If the accused is not immediately found, the police can still execute the warrant later, since it remains valid until cancelled or executed.
In Summary
Form: Written, signed, and sealed.
Directed to: Police officer(s).
Duration: Remains valid until cancelled by the issuing court or executed.
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