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Section 357 — Breach of contract to attend on and supply wants of helpless person
357
357
Breach of contract to attend on and supply wants of helpless person
Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023
Chapter XIX Of Criminal Intimidation, Insult, Annoyance, Defamation, Etc
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Reviewed by Advocate Aditi Babbar, Seasoned Advocate · Practicing since 31 years
📅 Updated 2026-04-10📚 Source: The Gazette of India
NeglectChapter XIXMinor
🗣️ Simple Explanation
What does this law say? Section 357 of the BNS addresses breach of contract to care for helpless people. If you have a contract to look after someone who is unable to care for themselves, and you fail to do so, you can be punished.
Why does this law exist? It ensures vulnerable people, like the elderly or those with disabilities, are protected. It makes sure people fulfill their caregiving responsibilities.
Real-life impact Imagine a caregiver abandoning an elderly person they are paid to look after. This law provides a legal recourse. It protects those who cannot protect themselves.
What happens if you break this law? You could be jailed for up to three months, fined up to five thousand rupees, or both. This section does not replace any specific section of the IPC.
⚖️ Punishment

Imprisonment up to three months, or fine up to five thousand rupees, or both.

💡 Real Life Example

Sneha, a nurse, is contracted to care for an elderly patient but repeatedly neglects her duties. This puts the patient at risk. Legal consequence: Sneha could face imprisonment and a fine.

A company is contracted to provide food to a mental health facility but fails to deliver. This endangers the residents. Legal consequence: The company could be penalized.

🛡️ KNOW YOUR RIGHTS
  • •Ensure the contract details are clear and understood.
  • •Document all instances of neglect or breach of contract.
  • •Report the breach to the authorities.
  • •Seek legal advice if you are a victim of neglect.
  • •Know your rights if you are falsely accused.
❓ FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Section 357 of BNS deals with failing to fulfill a contract to care for a helpless person. This includes people who are young, have mental health issues, or are sick. If you have a legal agreement to look after such a person and you neglect your duties, you can be punished.
If you breach a contract to care for a helpless person under Section 357, you could face up to three months in jail, a fine of up to five thousand rupees, or both. The court will decide the specific punishment based on the circumstances of the case.
Yes, the offense under Section 357 is bailable. This means that a person accused of this crime can be released on bail. However, the court may set conditions for bail, such as requiring the accused to appear for hearings.
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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