IPC Section 116
IPC Section 116 – “Abetment of Suicide of Child or Insane Person”
Exact Wording (Simplified):
Section 116 of the Indian Penal Code deals with situations where someone abets the suicide of a person who is under 18 years old (a minor) or insane.
Key Points:
Who it applies to:
The person whose suicide is abetted must be:
A minor (under 18 years of age), or
A person who is insane (mentally incapable of understanding the nature of their actions).
Definition of Abetment:
“Abetment” in legal terms means:
Instigating, conspiring, or intentionally aiding someone to commit suicide.
Example: Encouraging, threatening, or helping a child or insane person to take their life.
Nature of the offense:
Abetting the suicide of such a person is considered more serious than abetment of suicide of a normal adult because the victim is deemed vulnerable.
The law recognizes that minors and insane persons may not have full understanding or control over their actions, so anyone influencing them bears higher responsibility.
Punishment:
The person who abets the suicide of a child or insane person can be punished with imprisonment and/or fine.
The imprisonment term can be up to 10 years, depending on the seriousness of the case and the circumstances.
Example Scenarios:
A 17-year-old child is persuaded by an adult to commit suicide — the adult can be charged under Section 116.
A mentally ill person is assisted in ending their life by a caretaker — the caretaker can be punished under Section 116.
Distinction from Section 115:
Section 115 IPC deals with abetment of suicide of a normal adult.
Section 116 IPC is specifically for children and insane persons.
This distinction exists because the law recognizes the vulnerability of these groups.
✅ Summary:
IPC Section 116 punishes anyone who abets the suicide of a minor or mentally unstable person, considering them more vulnerable. The abettor can face imprisonment up to 10 years or a fine, or both. It is a protective law to prevent exploitation of those who cannot fully understand the consequences of their actions.
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