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Section 103 — Punishment for murder
103
103
Punishment for murder
Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 • Previously IPC Section 302
Chapter VI Of Offences Affecting The Human Body
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Reviewed by Advocate Aditi Babbar, Seasoned Advocate · Practicing since 31 years
📅 Updated 2026-04-10📚 Source: The Gazette of India
MurderPunishmentCriminal LawChapter VISeverePreviously IPC 302
🗣️ Simple Explanation
What does this law say? Section 103 of the BNS explains the punishment for murder. If you commit murder, you can be sentenced to death or life in prison. You will also have to pay a fine. If a group of five or more people commit murder based on someone's identity, they face the same punishment. This section replaces the old Section 302 of IPC.
Why does this law exist? This law exists to deter people from committing murder. It ensures that those who take a life are severely punished. It also addresses hate crimes and group violence.
Real-life impact This law affects anyone who commits murder. It also addresses hate crimes and group violence. It sends a strong message that such actions will not be tolerated. It protects vulnerable groups.
What happens if you break this law? You could face the death penalty or life in prison. You will also have to pay a fine. Police can arrest you without a warrant.
⚖️ Punishment

Whoever commits murder shall be punished with death or imprisonment for life, and shall also be liable to fine.

💡 Real Life Example

Rahul murders Amit. Rahul faces the death penalty or life imprisonment. A group of people, motivated by caste, murders a person. Each member of the group faces the death penalty or life imprisonment. Sneha kills her husband. She faces the death penalty or life imprisonment. The legal consequence is severe punishment.

🛡️ KNOW YOUR RIGHTS
  • •Consult a lawyer immediately.
  • •Understand the charges against you.
  • •Refuse to answer questions without a lawyer.
  • •Seek legal aid if you cannot afford a lawyer (Article 39A).
  • •Gather evidence to support your defense.
❓ FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Under Section 103 of the BNS, the punishment for murder is either the death penalty or imprisonment for life. In addition to this, the offender will also be liable to pay a fine. The severity of the punishment depends on the circumstances of the crime.
If a group of five or more people commits murder based on someone's race, caste, community, sex, place of birth, language, personal belief, or similar grounds, each member of the group faces the same punishment as if they committed the murder individually: death or life imprisonment, plus a fine.
No, murder is a non-bailable offense. This means that if you are accused of murder, the police can arrest you without a warrant. You will not be released on bail easily. You will have to go through the legal process, and the court will decide on your bail.
Sources & References

📒 Legal text sourced from The Gazette of India & AdvocateKhoj Bare Acts Library

⚖️ Content reviewed by Advocate Aditi Babbar, Seasoned Advocate, with 31 years of legal practice

📚 Act Reference: Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 (replaces IPC)

Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a qualified advocate for specific legal matters.

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