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Section 326 — Mischief by injury, inundation, fire or explosive substance, etc
326
326
Mischief by injury, inundation, fire or explosive substance, etc
Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023
Chapter XVII Of Offences Against Property
⚖️
Reviewed by Advocate Aditi Babbar, Seasoned Advocate · Practicing since 31 years
📅 Updated 2026-04-10📚 Source: The Gazette of India
Property DamageMischiefInfrastructureCriminal Law
🗣️ Simple Explanation
What does this law say? Section 326 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) deals with mischief. This means causing damage or harm to property. It covers various actions like damaging water supplies, making roads unsafe, causing floods, or damaging navigation signals. It also includes using fire or explosives to damage property.
Why does this law exist? This law protects essential services and infrastructure. It prevents actions that can disrupt daily life and cause significant damage. It ensures people are held accountable for damaging property.
Real-life impact This law affects you if you damage public property. It also applies if you damage someone's private property. This could include damaging a road, a building, or even a farmer's crops.
What happens if you break this law? The punishment depends on the type of mischief. It can range from one year to life imprisonment. You may also have to pay a fine. Police can arrest without warrant.
⚖️ Punishment

Imprisonment for life, or imprisonment up to ten years, or fine, or both.

💡 Real Life Example

Rahul, angry at his neighbor, damages their water supply. He could face up to 5 years in jail. Amit sets fire to a building, intending to cause damage. He could face up to 7 years in jail and a fine. Priya intentionally damages a navigation signal. She could be imprisoned for up to 7 years. Sneha floods a public road causing damage. She could be imprisoned for up to 5 years.

🛡️ KNOW YOUR RIGHTS
  • •Report the incident to the police immediately.
  • •Seek legal advice from a lawyer.
  • •Gather evidence to support your case.
  • •Cooperate with the police investigation.
  • •If falsely accused, gather evidence to prove your innocence.
❓ FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Section 326 of the BNS deals with mischief, which means causing damage to property. It covers various acts like damaging water supplies, making roads unsafe, causing floods, or damaging navigation signals. It also includes using fire or explosives to damage property. This section replaces the old law.
The punishment varies depending on the type of mischief. It can range from one year to life imprisonment. You may also have to pay a fine. For example, damaging a landmark can lead to one year in jail. Using fire to destroy a building can lead to life imprisonment.
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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