BNS Section 57 or Section 57 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) pertains to the serious act of abetting offences committed by large groups, including gatherings exceeding ten individuals. This provision aims to deter incitement and ensure accountability for those who instigate unlawful activities.
BNS Section 57: Abetting commission of offence by public or by more than ten persons: Provision
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 :
- Nature of the Offence: Any person who abets the commission of a crime involving a group of more than ten individuals is liable under this section.
- Punishment: An offender may face imprisonment for a term of up to seven years and may also be subject to a fine.
- Illustration: If an individual publicly provokes members of one community to attack another during a religious or political procession, they would be held accountable under Section 57.
Practical Significance:
This provision plays a crucial role in preventing mob violence and organised attacks that disrupt public order. By penalizing instigators, it ensures that crimes influenced by collective dynamics are appropriately addressed.
Section 57 make sure people commitment to maintaining law and order by tackling the fundamental causes of group-based offences. It serves as a strong deterrent against those who incite unlawful activities within society.
Table: Offences and Punishments for Abetment Under BNS Section 57
| Section | Offence | Punishment | Key Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| 56 | Abetment of an offence punishable with imprisonment | Up to one-fourth of the longest term, or fine, or both | Applies when the offence is not committed due to the abetment |
| 56 (Public Servant Abettor) | Abetment by a public servant who was duty-bound to prevent the offence | Up to one-half of the longest term for the offence | Stricter punishment for those in official positions |
| 57 | Abetting a group of more than ten persons to commit an offence | Up to seven years imprisonment and fine | Applies when someone instigates or encourages a large group to commit an offence |
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FAQs on BNS Section 57
1. What is Section 57 of the BNS?
Section 57 deals with abetting the commission of an offence by the public or by more than ten persons. If someone instigates or encourages a large group to commit an offence, they can face up to seven years of imprisonment and a fine.
2. What is Section 56 of the BNS?
Section 56 covers abetment of an offence punishable with imprisonment. If the offence is not committed due to the abetment, the abettor may be punished with up to one-fourth of the longest term prescribed for that offence, or a fine, or both. If the abettor is a public servant, the punishment may extend to one-half of the longest term.
3. What is abetment under BNS?
Abetment refers to instigating, aiding, or conspiring to commit an offence. Even if the offence is not ultimately committed, the abettor may still be held liable.
4. Is abetment a punishable offence under BNS?
Yes, abetment is punishable under various sections of BNS, depending on the nature of the offence and the role of the abettor.
5. What happens if a public servant abets an offence?
If a public servant, whose duty is to prevent an offence, abets it, they may face stricter punishment, extending to one-half of the longest term prescribed for the offence.
6. Can someone be punished for abetment even if the crime is not committed?
Yes, under Section 56, an abettor can be punished even if the offence is not carried out.
7. What is the punishment for abetting a large group to commit an offence?
Under Section 57, if someone abets a group of more than ten persons to commit an offence, they can face up to seven years of imprisonment and a fine.
