30
30
Act done in good faith for benefit of a person without consent
Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023
Chapter III General Exceptions
⚖️
Reviewed by Advocate Aditi Babbar, Seasoned Advocate · Practicing since 31 yearsGeneral ExceptionsEmergencyGood FaithConsent
🗣️ Simple Explanation
What does this law say?
Section 30 of the BNS says that if you do something good for someone, even without their consent, it's not a crime if they can't give consent or there's no guardian to ask. This section replaces the old Section 92 of IPC.
Why does this law exist?
This law allows people to help others in emergencies. It protects those who act to save lives or prevent harm when consent isn't possible.
Real-life impact
If someone is unconscious and needs medical help, a doctor can treat them without consent. This law allows for life-saving actions in urgent situations. It prioritizes helping those in need.
What happens if you break this law?
This section provides a defense. If you act in good faith to help someone who can't consent, you are not committing an offense. However, there are exceptions, like intentionally causing death.
💡 Real Life Example
Z is unconscious after a car accident. A doctor performs life-saving surgery without consent. The doctor is protected by this law. No crime is committed.
Z is attacked by a tiger. A shoots the tiger to save Z, even if the bullet might hit Z. A is protected by this law. No crime is committed.
🛡️ KNOW YOUR RIGHTS
- •Act in good faith to help others in emergencies.
- •Understand the limits of this protection.
- •Seek legal advice if you are unsure.
- •Document all actions taken for the person's benefit.
❓ FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Section 30 of BNS protects actions done in good faith to help someone who can't consent, like in an emergency. It means that if you're trying to help someone and they can't agree, you won't be punished if something goes wrong. However, it doesn't protect intentional harm.
The exceptions include intentionally causing death, doing something likely to cause death (except to prevent death or serious harm), causing serious harm (unless to prevent death or serious harm), or helping someone commit a crime. These actions are not protected, even in an emergency.
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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