Section 142 - Power to release persons imprisoned for failing to give security

Release for failing to give security: conditional discharge and reduction of security permitted; cancellation and remand follow breach.

District Magistrates and Chief Judicial Magistrates may discharge persons imprisoned for failing to give security, unconditionally or on conditions accepted by the person; the High Court or Court of Session (and specified magistrates) may reduce security amount, sureties or duration. Conditional discharges may be prescribed by State rules and cancelled by the magistrate on breach, permitting arrest without warrant and remand unless security is furnished for the unexpired portion. Higher courts and magistrates may cancel bonds for peace or good behaviour, and sureties may apply to have bonds cancelled, prompting summons or warrant against the bound person.