What is Section 216B IPC? Definition of 'Harbour' in Sections 212, 216, and 216A
Published on: Lawiz Team
Learn about Section 216B IPC: Definition of 'Harbour' in Sections 212, 216, and 216A
Official Legal Text
Except in section 157, and in section 130 in the case in which the harbour is given by the wife or husband of the offender, 'harbour' includes the supplying of a person with shelter, food, drink, money, clothes, arms, ammunition or means of conveyance, or assisting a person by any means, whether of the same kind as those enumerated in this section or not, to evade apprehension.
What This IPC Section Means – Explained in Simple Words
Section 216B punishes anyone who knowingly harbours an offender of dacoity.
Purpose
To prevent individuals from protecting dacoits from the law.
Bailable or Not Bailable & Punishment
Bailable: Not Applicable, Punishment: Not Applicable (This section provides the definition of 'harbour').
Key Elements
1. The person must provide shelter, assistance, or concealment. 2. The offender must be involved in dacoity. 3. The person must know or have reason to believe that the individual is an offender of dacoity.
Punishment Details
Imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to seven years, along with a 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 dacoit and knowledge of their criminal status.
Illustration
If a person provides shelter to a dacoit knowing them to be involved in dacoity, they can be punished under Section 216B.
FAQs
What does Section 216B IPC define?
Definition of 'harbour' in sections 212, 216 and 216A.
Where is Section 216B IPC applicable?
It applies to criminal proceedings, obstruction of justice, or misuse of authority.
Why is Section 216B IPC significant?
It safeguards judicial processes, law enforcement, and accountability in the legal system.
Give an example involving Section 216B IPC.
Cases include aiding criminal escapes, offering bribes to screen offenders, or public servant misconduct.
What punishment is prescribed under Section 216B IPC?
Punishment ranges from simple to rigorous imprisonment, fines, or both depending on the offence.
Is Section 216B IPC linked with other IPC laws?
Yes, often related to offences against public justice, corruption, and custody breaches.
How do courts view Section 216B IPC?
Courts interpret such cases seriously to ensure deterrence against interfering with justice.