Section 57 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023
Section 57 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, addresses the offence of abetting the commission of a crime by the public generally or by a group exceeding ten persons. This provision aims to deter individuals from inciting or assisting in large-scale unlawful activities, thereby maintaining public order and safety
📜 Text of Section 57
Section 57. Abetting commission of offence by public or by more than ten persons
Whoever abets the commission of an offence by the public generally or by any number or class of persons exceeding ten, shall be punished with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to seven years and with fine.
Illustration:
A affixes in a public place a placard instigating a sect consisting of more than ten members to meet at a certain time and place, for the purpose of attacking the members of an adverse sect, while engaged in a procession. A has committed the offence defined in this section
⚖️ Key Points
Scope of Offence: This section targets individuals who instigate or aid in the commission of crimes involving the general public or groups exceeding ten persons
Punishment: The offence is punishable with imprisonment of either description (rigorous or simple) for a term which may extend to seven years, along with a fine.
Illustrative Example: An individual who displays a placard encouraging a group of more than ten people to gather and attack members of a rival group during a procession would be committing an offence under this section.
🔄 Comparison with IPC
Section 57 of the BNS, 2023, aligns with Section 117 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), which similarly addresses the abetment of offences by the public or by groups exceeding ten persons. However, the BNS prescribes a more stringent punishment, extending the maximum imprisonment term from three years under the IPC to seven years under the BNS.
🧠 Practical Implications
This provision is particularly relevant in the context of public gatherings, protests, and communal events. It ensures that individuals who incite or facilitate large-scale unlawful activities are held accountable, thereby promoting peace and preventing the escalation of violence.
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