BNS Section 57: Legal Consequences of Abetting Crimes Involving Large Groups

Amit Kapoor04 mins

Section in INDIAN PENAL CODE (IPC) 117

betting commission of offence by the public or by more than ten persons

Whoever abets the commission of an offence by the public generally or by any number or class of persons exceeding ten, shall be punished with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to seven years and with fine.

IllustrationsA affixes in a public place a placard instigating a sect consisting of more than ten members to meet at a certain time and place, for the purpose of attacking the members of an adverse sect, while engaged in a procession. A has committed the offence defined in this section.

Example:
If Vijay posts on his youtube channel to instigate a large number of people to reach a particular place at a given time to vandalize property, he would be charged under this section. 

1. Abetment of Offences by a Group or Public

  • Abetment: Encouraging, aiding, or inciting others to commit an offence.
  • Public or Large Group: The section applies when the offence affects the general public or a group exceeding ten people.

2. Punishment

  • Imprisonment: The abettor may face either:
    • Rigorous Imprisonment (with hard labor)
    • Simple Imprisonment (without hard labor)
    • Imprisonment may extend up to seven years depending on the case’s severity.
  • Fine: A fine will also be imposed, with the amount depending on the circumstances.

3. Target Group

  • The law applies when the abetment is targeted towards:
    • The public at large.
    • A group exceeding ten people, whether a specific class or group.

Key Takeaways

  • Group Size: The offence must involve more than ten persons.
  • Penalties: The abettor may face up to seven years of imprisonment and a fine.
  • Imprisonment Types: Simple or rigorous, depending on the offence’s severity.
  • Widespread Impact: The law aims to prevent the abetment of crimes that could have widespread consequences when large groups are involved.

Summary

BNS-57 holds individuals accountable for inciting or assisting in offences that target the public or large groups of people. The penalties include imprisonment for up to seven years and a fine, considering the potential greater harm in cases involving more than ten persons.

Additional Points

  • Cognizability: The offence could be either cognizable or non-cognizable, based on the offence abetted.
  • Bail: The bail status depends on whether the abetted offence is bailable or non-bailable.
  • Court: The offence will be triable in the court based on the nature of the offence abetted.

Related News