Definition
An inquest is a legal inquiry conducted to ascertain:
- Identity of the deceased
- Cause of death
- Manner of death
- Circumstances surrounding death
Types of Inquest
The two main types in India are the Police Inquest and the Magistrate's Inquest.
| Feature | Police Inquest | Magistrate's Inquest |
|---|---|---|
| Conducted by | Police Officer (usually officer in charge of police station) | Executive Magistrate |
| Nature | Routine inquest | Special inquest |
| Scope | Apparent cause and circumstances of death | Detailed independent inquiry |
| Cases investigated | Ordinary unnatural deaths | Specified special cases |
| Authority | Police | Magistrate |
| Detail of inquiry | Comparatively limited | More comprehensive |