121
121
Voluntarily causing hurt or grievous hurt to deter public servant from his duty
Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023
Chapter VI Of Offences Affecting The Human Body
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Reviewed by Advocate Aditi Babbar, Seasoned Advocate · Practicing since 31 yearsAssaultPublic ServantViolenceModerate
🗣️ Simple Explanation
What does this law say?
Section 121 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) deals with hurting a public servant (like a police officer) to stop them from doing their job. If you hurt them, you could face jail time and a fine.
Why does this law exist?
This law protects public servants. It ensures they can do their jobs without fear of being hurt. It helps maintain law and order in society.
Real-life impact
Imagine a police officer trying to stop a fight. If someone attacks the officer to help the fight continue, they break this law. This law keeps public servants safe.
What happens if you break this law?
If you cause hurt, you could go to jail for up to 5 years, or pay a fine, or both. If you cause serious harm, you could be jailed for 1 to 10 years, and also pay a fine. Police can arrest without warrant.
⚖️ Punishment
Imprisonment up to 10 years, or fine, or both.
💡 Real Life Example
Rahul tries to stop a police officer from arresting his friend. He shoves the officer, causing minor injuries. Rahul could be arrested and face up to 5 years in jail. Amit, angry at a traffic stop, punches a traffic constable, causing a broken nose. Amit faces 1 to 10 years in jail and a fine.
🛡️ KNOW YOUR RIGHTS
- •Seek legal advice immediately if accused.
- •Cooperate with the police, but do not admit guilt.
- •Gather evidence to support your defense.
- •Remember, you have the right to legal aid (Article 39A).
❓ FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Section 121 of BNS punishes those who hurt public servants to stop them from doing their duty. This includes causing minor injuries or serious harm. This section replaces the old Section 332 and 333 of the IPC. The punishment depends on the severity of the hurt caused. It aims to protect public servants.
If you cause hurt, you could face up to 5 years in jail, a fine, or both. If you cause serious harm, the punishment is 1 to 10 years in jail and a fine. The severity of the punishment depends on the extent of the injury caused to the public servant. The police can arrest you without a warrant.
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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