What is Section 321 IPC? Voluntarily causing hurt

Published on: Lawiz Team

Learn about Section 321 IPC: Voluntarily causing hurt

Official Legal Text

Whoever does any act with the intention of thereby causing hurt to any person, or with the knowledge that he is likely thereby to cause hurt to any person, and does thereby cause hurt to any person, is said 'voluntarily to cause hurt'.

What This IPC Section Means – Explained in Simple Words

Section 321 defines 'voluntarily causing hurt' as causing bodily pain, disease, or infirmity to another person intentionally.

Purpose

To establish accountability for intentionally causing harm to another person.

Bailable or Not Bailable & Punishment

Bailable: Bailable, Punishment: Imprisonment up to 1 year, or fine up to 1,000 rupees, or both.

Key Elements

1. There must be an act of causing hurt. 2. The act must be done voluntarily. 3. The victim must suffer bodily pain, disease, or infirmity.

Legal Interpretation

Courts determine voluntary hurt by examining the intent of the accused and the resulting harm to the victim.

Illustrative Example

If a person punches another person in anger, causing them pain, it is voluntary hurt under Section 321.

Exceptions

If the hurt is caused accidentally or without intent, it does not fall under Section 321.

Related Sections

Related to Section 322 (Voluntarily causing grievous hurt) and Section 323 (Punishment for voluntarily causing hurt).

FAQs

What is Section 321 IPC about?

Voluntarily causing hurt

What is the punishment under Section 321 IPC?

Punishment varies depending on specific conditions under Section 321 IPC.

Is the offence under Section 321 IPC bailable or non-bailable?

Depends on the severity and judicial discretion.

How can a case be filed under Section 321 IPC?

Approach the nearest police station and file an FIR mentioning the details.

What are the defences available under Section 321 IPC?

Defences depend on lack of intent, mistake of fact, or procedural lapses.

Can you give examples related to Section 321 IPC?

Real-world examples vary based on facts and circumstances.

Are there any landmark judgments related to Section 321 IPC?

Judicial interpretations vary; specific case laws define the scope.