Chargesheet vs Criminal Case – Are They the Same? Know the Truth

 A question we hear often at ChargesheetHelp.com is:

👉 “I received a chargesheet from my department  is this the same as a police criminal case?”

The short answer is: No, they are not the same.

But in some cases, they may be connected.

Let’s break it down so you understand your position  legally and professionally.

🧾 What is a Departmental Chargesheet?

• Issued by your employer, not the police
• Related to misconduct at the workplace (e.g., absenteeism, insubordination, misuse of office, etc.)
• Handled through disciplinary proceedings under your organization’s rules
• Can result in warning, suspension, demotion, or dismissal

✅ It is not a criminal case, and doesn’t go to court unless you challenge it later.

🚔 What is a Criminal Chargesheet?

• Filed by the police, after investigation of an FIR (First Information Report)
• Submitted to the Magistrate or court under Section 173(2) of the CrPC
• Involves criminal offences like theft, fraud, assault, forgery, etc.
• Leads to a criminal trial and, if proven, jail or fines

This is a matter between you and the state, not just your employer.

🔗 When Can Both Happen Together?

In some serious cases, both chargesheets may be filed separately:

Example:

• You are accused of fraudulently approving payments in your office.
• Your department may issue a disciplinary chargesheet
• Simultaneously, the employer may file a police complaint, leading to a criminal chargesheet

So you may face:

• Internal inquiry under service rules
• Criminal trial under IPC

But remember  they are handled independently.

⚖️ Does One Affect the Other?

Yes, but not always directly.

• A departmental inquiry can proceed independently, even if a criminal case is ongoing
• However, in serious charges involving moral turpitude or corruption, inquiry may be put on hold until the criminal case ends
• If you are acquitted in court, you can use that to support your case in the departmental appeal

But being acquitted in court does not automatically cancel departmental punishment unless the two are directly connected and based on the same facts.

✅ What Should You Do?

• If you receive a departmental chargesheet, respond on time we help you do it professionally
• If there is a criminal case, take legal advice from a lawyer for court matters
• But remember: in many cases, you don’t need a lawyer for the departmental reply we help you draft it at ChargesheetHelp.com

📩 Facing both a chargesheet and police action? Don’t panic.

Write to us at chargesheethelp007@gmail.com and we’ll help you prepare a strong, professional defense for your departmental case.