Difference Between Cognizable & Non- Cognizable Offence

Under the Bharatiya Nagrik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023, cognizable offences [Section 2(1)(g)] are serious crimes such as murder, rape, etc., listed in the First Schedule. In these cases, police can register an FIR and arrest without prior court approval/warrant. 

In contrast, Non-cognizable offences [Section 2(1)(o)] are relatively less serious, like public nuisance or defamation. Here, police must first seek permission from a Magistrate to investigate or a warrant to arrest.

Cognizable cases are triable by Sessions Courts, while non-cognizable cases are heard by Magistrate Courts.