Plea bargaining in India refers to the negotiation and agreement between the prosecution and the defendant in a criminal case, whereby the defendant agrees to plead guilty to certain charges in exchange for concessions or benefits such as reduced charges, lesser sentences, or dismissal of other charges. Plea bargaining aims to expedite the resolution of criminal cases, conserve judicial resources, and promote efficiency in the criminal justice system by avoiding lengthy trials and securing guilty pleas. The process of plea bargaining is governed by the Criminal Procedure Code, 1973 (CrPC), and the respective state laws that authorize and regulate plea bargaining procedures. The accused may initiate plea bargaining by expressing their willingness to plead guilty to specific charges in exchange for favorable treatment, or the prosecution may propose plea bargaining to secure the defendant’s cooperation or to expedite case resolution. The court plays a supervisory role in the plea bargaining process, ensuring that the defendant’s plea is voluntary, informed, and supported by sufficient factual basis. If the court approves the plea bargain, it may impose the agreed-upon sentence or refer the matter back to the prosecution and defense for renegotiation. Plea bargaining is commonly used in cases involving non-violent offenses, first-time offenders, or situations where the evidence against the defendant is strong. While plea bargaining offers benefits such as reduced sentences and certainty of outcome, critics raise concerns about potential coercion, unfairness, and erosion of due process rights. However, when conducted transparently and in accordance with legal safeguards, plea bargaining can serve as a valuable tool for promoting efficiency, resolving cases, and achieving justice in the criminal justice system.