Panchanama is a Record, prepared in presence/witness of some person/Panchas. The Police prepare panchanama in the presence of Panchas under two circumstances:

(i) An investigation into death,

(ii) Search of Article as per Section 100 of Cr.P.C.

Panchas must be independent, unbiased, Major and Sound mind. Generally they should be called from the locality, where the Panchanama was conducted. In case of non-availability of local person, the Police can call from different locality.

Panchanama begins with the name, age occupation and address of the panchas. It contains the reason for which it is being held and information about the exact location of place of offence. After writing the panchanama, it is signed by the panchas, it should contain the date, time when it was started and when it was ended.