What is Section 216A IPC? Penalty for Harbouring Robber or Dacoit
Published on: Lawiz Team
Learn about Section 216A IPC: Penalty for Harbouring Robber or Dacoit
Official Legal Text
Whoever, knowing or having reason to believe that any persons are about to commit or have recently committed robbery or dacoity, harbours them or any of them, with the intention of facilitating the commission of such robbery or dacoity, or of screening them or any of them from punishment, shall be punished with rigorous imprisonment for a term which may extend to seven years, and shall also be liable to fine.
What This IPC Section Means – Explained in Simple Words
Section 216A penalizes anyone who harbours a robber or dacoit, knowing them to be involved in such crimes.
Purpose
To prevent individuals from protecting robbers or dacoits from the law.
Bailable or Not Bailable & Punishment
Bailable: Non-Bailable, Punishment: Imprisonment up to 7 years, and fine.
Key Elements
1. The person must provide shelter, assistance, or concealment. 2. The offender must be a robber or dacoit. 3. The person must know or have reason to believe that the individual is involved in such crimes.
Punishment Details
Imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to ten years, and shall also be liable to fine.
Legal Defenses
If the person can prove they were unaware of the offender's status or acted under coercion.
Judicial Interpretation
Courts focus on the intention to protect the robber or dacoit and knowledge of their criminal status.
Illustration
If a person hides a dacoit who is wanted by the police, they can be punished under Section 216A.
FAQs
What does Section 216A IPC define?
Penalty for harbouring robbers or dacoits.
Where is Section 216A IPC applicable?
It applies to criminal proceedings, obstruction of justice, or misuse of authority.
Why is Section 216A IPC significant?
It safeguards judicial processes, law enforcement, and accountability in the legal system.
Give an example involving Section 216A IPC.
Cases include aiding criminal escapes, offering bribes to screen offenders, or public servant misconduct.
What punishment is prescribed under Section 216A IPC?
Punishment ranges from simple to rigorous imprisonment, fines, or both depending on the offence.
Is Section 216A IPC linked with other IPC laws?
Yes, often related to offences against public justice, corruption, and custody breaches.
How do courts view Section 216A IPC?
Courts interpret such cases seriously to ensure deterrence against interfering with justice.