IPC Section 307
IPC Section 307 – Attempt to Murder
Text of Section 307 (simplified):
"Whoever does any act with intention or knowledge that it is likely to cause death of another person, and does such act, shall be punished for attempting to murder even if death does not result."
Detailed Explanation
Nature of Offense:
Section 307 deals with attempted murder.
It punishes acts done with intent to kill or knowledge that death is likely, even if the victim survives.
Who Can Be Liable:
Any person who:
Performs an act with intention to cause death, or
Knows that the act is likely to cause death, and
Commits the act towards that purpose.
Elements of the Offense:
To constitute an offense under Section 307, the following must be present:
Actus reus (Act): There must be a direct action or attempt toward killing.
Mens rea (Intent or Knowledge): The person must intend to kill or know that death is likely.
Attempt: Even if death does not occur, the attempt itself is punishable.
Causation: The act must be a substantial step toward causing death.
Examples
Firing a gun at someone with the intent to kill, but missing.
Poisoning someone’s drink with the aim of killing.
Stabbing a person intending to kill, but the victim survives after treatment.
Punishment
Imprisonment up to 10 years, and
Fine, and
If the attempt actually causes hurt, imprisonment may extend to life imprisonment.
Key Points to Remember
Section 307 deals with intention or knowledge of causing death, unlike Section 317 which deals with negligence causing death.
Even if the victim survives, the law treats the attempt as serious criminal offense.
Related sections:
IPC 302 – Murder.
IPC 326 – Grievous hurt with intention.
IPC 312/316 – Causing death of a fetus (specific circumstances).
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