IPC Section 337
📜 Text of Section 337, Indian Penal Code (IPC)
"Causing hurt by act endangering life or personal safety of others."
“Whoever causes hurt to any person by doing any act so rashly or negligently as to endanger human life, or the personal safety of others, 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
Section 337 deals with causing hurt to a person by an act that is rash or negligent and that endangers human life or personal safety.
🔍 Key Points
Nature of Act:
The act must be either rash (done without due caution) or negligent (failure to take proper care).
Example: Careless driving, careless handling of weapons, etc.
Result:
The rash or negligent act causes hurt to a person.
“Hurt” means causing bodily pain, disease, or infirmity (Section 319 IPC).
Endangering Life or Safety:
The act must be such that it endangers the life or personal safety of others.
It is not just about the hurt caused, but the risk created by the rash or negligent behavior.
Punishment:
Imprisonment up to 6 months, or
Fine up to ₹1,000, or
Both.
⚖️ Legal Importance
This section addresses acts causing injury due to carelessness rather than intentional harm.
It often applies in cases of minor accidents, especially involving vehicles.
It is a cognizable and bailable offense.
🧩 Summary Table
| Element | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Type of act | Rash or negligent act |
| Result | Causes hurt to another person |
| Condition | Act endangers human life or personal safety |
| Punishment | Up to 6 months imprisonment or fine or both |
🔎 Example
A driver, without paying attention, hits a pedestrian causing injury.
The act of careless driving is rash/negligent and endangers life.
The injured pedestrian suffers hurt.
The driver can be charged under Section 337.
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