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Section 136 — Assault or criminal force on grave provocation
136
136
Assault or criminal force on grave provocation
Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023
Chapter VI Of Offences Affecting The Human Body
⚖️
Reviewed by Advocate Aditi Babbar, Seasoned Advocate · Practicing since 31 years
📅 Updated 2026-04-10📚 Source: The Gazette of India
AssaultProvocationOffences Against The BodyMinor Offence
🗣️ Simple Explanation
What does this law say? Section 136 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) deals with assault or using force when someone provokes you severely. If a person attacks or uses force against you because you did something that really angered them, this law applies.
Why does this law exist? This law acknowledges that people sometimes react strongly when provoked. It aims to punish such actions, but with a lesser penalty than a regular assault. It balances justice with human reactions.
Real-life impact Imagine someone insults you badly, and you push them. This law might apply. It affects how we handle anger and physical reactions. It ensures that even in heated moments, there are consequences.
What happens if you break this law? If you are found guilty, you could get simple imprisonment for up to one month. You might also have to pay a fine of up to one thousand rupees, or both. The police can arrest you without a warrant.
⚖️ Punishment

Imprisonment up to one month, or fine up to one thousand rupees, or both.

💡 Real Life Example

Rahul and Amit get into a heated argument. Amit insults Rahul's family. Rahul, in a fit of rage, shoves Amit. Under Section 136, Rahul could face a simple imprisonment or a fine. This is because Amit's words provoked Rahul.

Priya and her neighbor are fighting over a parking spot. The neighbor gets angry and pushes Priya. Priya can file a case under Section 136. The neighbor could face jail time or a fine.

🛡️ KNOW YOUR RIGHTS
  • •Stay calm and do not retaliate physically.
  • •Seek legal advice immediately if accused.
  • •Gather any evidence, like witnesses or videos.
  • •Cooperate with the police but do not admit guilt without a lawyer.
❓ FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Section 136 of the BNS addresses assault or use of force when someone is severely provoked. It means if you react physically to someone's actions that angered you, this law might apply. It acknowledges that strong emotions can lead to physical reactions. The punishment is less severe than for regular assault.
If you are found guilty under Section 136, you could face simple imprisonment for up to one month. You might also have to pay a fine of up to one thousand rupees, or both. The punishment is less severe because the action happened due to sudden provocation. 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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