HARDEEP SINGH vs STATE OF PUNJAB .

The Supreme Court addressed the interpretation of Section 319 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973, concerning the power of courts to add accused persons during inquiry or trial. The Court clarified that the power under Section 319 can be exercised even before the completion of cross-examination of witnesses, provided there is sufficient evidence suggesting that the additional accused are likely to be convicted. The judgment resolves conflicting views from previous cases, specifically distinguishing the rulings in Rakesh v. State of Haryana and Mohd. Shafi v. Mohd. Rafiq, thereby establishing a clearer guideline for lower courts.