BNS Section 159 – Abetting mutiny, or attempting to seduce a soldier, sailor or airman from his duty
IPC Section – 131
Summary of the Offence
| Offence | Punishment | Cognizable/Non-cognizable | Bailable/Non-bailable | Court |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Abetting mutiny, or attempting to seduce an officer, soldier, sailor, or airman from their allegiance or duty | Life imprisonment, or imprisonment for up to 10 years and fine | Cognizable | Non-bailable | Court of Session |
What is this Section About?
This section addresses the crime of encouraging or assisting a military member—whether an officer, soldier, sailor, or airman—to rebel against military authority (mutiny) or to abandon their duty. It also applies to attempts to influence these individuals to disobey their allegiance or responsibilities to the military.
Key Points
Definition of Offense:
- This section defines the offence as abetting mutiny, which means encouraging or helping members of the Army, Navy, or Air Force to rebel against military authority.
Targeted Personnel:
- The law specifically applies to officers, soldiers, sailors, and airmen in the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. It underscores the severity of undermining military discipline and authority.
Sedition and Allegiance:
- This law also covers actions aimed at seducing or persuading a soldier, sailor, or airman to abandon their duty or allegiance. Any act that seeks to disrupt their loyalty to the armed forces is punishable under this section.
Legal Consequences:
- Those found guilty under this section can be imprisoned for life or face up to 10 years of imprisonment, along with a fine.
Context and Importance:
- This law is critical for maintaining discipline and order within the armed forces. Given the potential risks of mutiny to national security and military operations, such offences are treated with the utmost seriousness.
