CrPC Section 266
Section 266 CrPC — Public Nuisance
Text of Section 266 CrPC:
"Whoever commits a public nuisance shall be punished with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to six months, or with fine which may extend to one thousand rupees, or with both."
Explanation and Breakdown:
1. What is Public Nuisance?
Public nuisance means an act or omission that causes annoyance, inconvenience, danger, or damage to the public or the community at large. It affects a community or neighborhood rather than just an individual.
Examples include:
Blocking a public road or street.
Polluting public water sources.
Making loud noises that disturb the public peace.
Obstructing public ways or causing danger in public places.
2. Who Can Be Punished?
Any person who causes such public nuisance can be punished under this section.
3. Punishment Under Section 266 CrPC:
Imprisonment: For up to 6 months.
Fine: Up to ₹1,000.
Or both (imprisonment and fine).
4. Nature of Offence:
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Type of offence | Public nuisance |
| Cognizable | No |
| Bailable | Yes |
| Triable by | Magistrate |
| Compoundable | Yes |
5. Relation with Other Laws:
Public nuisance is also an offence under the Indian Penal Code (IPC) — particularly Sections 268 and 290 IPC.
Section 266 CrPC acts as a summary punishment provision for minor public nuisances.
When the nuisance is serious, IPC provisions are applied.
6. Examples of Public Nuisance:
A vendor blocking a public road with goods.
Discharging sewage into a public waterway.
Creating a loud noise that disturbs a neighborhood.
Summary:
| Section | Provision | Punishment |
|---|---|---|
| 266 | Public nuisance | Up to 6 months imprisonment, or fine ₹1,000, or both |
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