What is Section 156 IPC? Liability of agent of owner or occupier for whose benefit riot is committed
Published on: Lawiz Team
Detailed explanation of Section 156 IPC: Liability of agent of owner or occupier for whose benefit riot is committed.
Official Legal Text
Whenever a riot is committed for the benefit or on behalf of any person as is described in Section 155, and such person has an agent or manager in charge of the land or of the business there carried on, then such agent or manager shall be punishable with fine, unless he shows that he used all lawful means in his power to prevent the riot, or to suppress it, or to aid the lawful authority in suppressing it.
What This IPC Section Means – Explained in Simple Words
Section 156 holds an agent of the owner or occupier liable if a riot is committed for the benefit of the owner.
Purpose
To ensure that agents who encourage riots for their employer's benefit are held accountable.
Bailable or Not Bailable & Punishment
Bailable: Bailable, Punishment: Imprisonment up to 2 years, or fine, or both.
Key Elements
The agent must have knowledge of the riot and must have taken no steps to prevent it.
Punishment Details
Punishment is the same as for the direct participants of the riot.
Legal Defenses
If the agent can prove they were unaware of the riot or took reasonable steps to prevent it.
Judicial Interpretation
Courts consider whether the agent had control over the situation.
Illustration
If an agent of a landowner hires people to evict tenants by force, they can be punished under Section 156.
FAQs
What does Section 156 IPC define?
Liability of agent of owner or occupier for whose benefit riot is committed.
Where is Section 156 IPC applicable?
It deals with liability of agent of owner or occupier for whose benefit riot is committed in public service or criminal situations.
Why is Section 156 IPC significant?
It protects public order, honesty in administration, and discourages criminal misconduct.
Give a real-world example involving Section 156 IPC.
Examples include public servants accepting bribes, unlawful assemblies, and misuse of official positions.
What punishment is applicable under Section 156 IPC?
Punishment varies from fines to imprisonment based on the offence's seriousness.
Is Section 156 IPC related to other provisions?
Yes, often linked with sections involving corruption, unlawful acts, or government integrity.
How do courts view Section 156 IPC?
Courts interpret it strictly to ensure justice, accountability, and safeguard public trust.