CrPC Section 507
CrPC Section 507 – Offense relating to criminal intimidation by anonymous communication
Plain English Meaning
This section deals with situations where a person threatens someone with injury to their person, reputation, or property anonymously—meaning the victim does not know the identity of the offender.
Section 507 essentially says:
Whoever commits criminal intimidation (i.e., threatens someone with harm) by an anonymous communication, or by using any false name or disguise, is punishable.
In simpler terms:
Threatening someone with injury, harm, or loss is criminal intimidation.
If the threat is made secretly or anonymously (e.g., a letter, phone call, or message where the identity is hidden), this falls under Section 507.
Key Points
Nature of the Offense:
It is a cognizable offense, meaning police can register an FIR without prior permission.
It is also a criminal offense, not just a civil matter.
Mode of Communication:
The threat can be communicated:
In writing (letters, notes)
By phone or electronic communication
Verbally while hiding one’s identity
The key point is that the identity of the person making the threat is concealed.
Punishment:
Punishable with imprisonment, or fine, or both.
The law treats anonymous threats more seriously because they cause fear and uncertainty.
Relationship with Section 503 IPC:
Section 503 defines criminal intimidation.
Section 507 is a specific enhancement when intimidation is anonymous or uses false identity/disguise.
Examples
Example 1:
A person sends anonymous letters to someone threatening to harm their family if they do not pay money.
The sender’s identity is hidden.
This falls under Section 507.
Example 2:
Someone calls another person on phone using a fake name and threatens to damage their property.
This is criminal intimidation by anonymous communication under Section 507.
Summary
Section 507 IPC punishes criminal intimidation done anonymously or under a false identity.
The fear caused by unknown threats makes this offense more serious than ordinary intimidation.
It covers letters, messages, phone calls, or any anonymous communication used to threaten someone.
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