IPC Section 108

IPC Section 108 – Abetment of offences punishable with imprisonment

Plain English Meaning

This section deals with abetment of certain offenses.
“Abetment” means instigating, aiding, or encouraging someone to commit an offense.

Section 108 specifically talks about:

“Whoever abets an offense punishable with imprisonment shall be punished in the same manner as if he had committed the offense himself.”

In simple terms:

If a person encourages, advises, or helps someone to commit a crime that is punishable with imprisonment,

Then that person is legally treated as a participant in the crime and can be punished as if they had done it themselves.

Key Points

Abetment Includes:

Instigating: Provoking or encouraging someone to commit the crime.

Conspiracy: Agreeing with others to commit the crime.

Aiding: Helping, either physically or by providing tools, guidance, or support.

Applies To:

Any offense that is punishable with imprisonment (not just minor offenses).

Punishment:

The abettor can receive the same punishment as the person who actually committed the offense.

Examples

Example 1:

A person tells someone to commit theft and gives them tools to break into a house.

Even if that person did not physically commit the theft, they can be punished under Section 108 because they abetted a punishable offense.

Example 2:

A person encourages another to assault someone, provides a plan, and stands nearby as support.

They are liable to the same punishment as the person who commits the assault.

Summary

Section 108 IPC ensures that anyone who abets a crime punishable with imprisonment is equally responsible for that crime.

It prevents people from indirectly committing crimes by encouraging, aiding, or conspiring.

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