Section 287 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023
Here’s an overview of Section 287 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023—part of Chapter XV: Offences affecting public health, safety, convenience, decency, and morals:
🔥 Section 287 – Negligent Conduct with Respect to Fire or Combustible Matter
Offence:
A person commits an offense if they, with fire or any combustible matter, act rashly or negligently in a way that:
Endangers human life, or
Is likely to cause hurt or injury to another person,
… or if they knowingly or negligently fail to take adequate precautions with such fire or combustible material under their control, to prevent probable danger to human life. (taxmanagementindia.com)
⚖️ Punishment
Imprisonment (simple or rigorous): up to 6 months,
Fine: up to ₹2,000,
Or both, at the court’s discretion. (advocatekhoj.com)
🛡️ Legal Attributes
Cognizable: Yes – police can arrest without a warrant.
Bailable: Yes – the accused has a right to bail.
Triable By: Any Magistrate, as is standard for offences under this chapter. (lawrato.com, devgan.in)
📚 Purpose & Context
This provision is designed to prevent negligent or reckless behavior involving fire or combustible materials, ensuring public safety. Examples include leaving fires unattended, improper storage of flammables, or other careless actions that pose a fire risk.
It replaces IPC Section 286 under the updated BNS framework, with both maintaining similar scope—though BNS formalizes context, agency, and penalties. (taxmanagementindia.com, cytrain.ncrb.gov.in)
📰 Real‑World Example
In a recent Delhi case, a blaze at an illegal e-rickshaw charging point led to two deaths. Authorities registered a case under Section 287 BNS for negligent conduct causing fire hazard, highlighting real-life enforcement of this provision. (hindustantimes.com)
✅ Section Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Offence | Rash/negligent conduct with fire/flamables |
| Imprisonment | Up to 6 months |
| Fine | Up to ₹2,000 |
| Cognizable | Yes |
| Bailable | Yes |
| Triable by | Any Magistrate |
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