What is Section 379A IPC? Definition of snatching
Published on: Lawiz Team
Understand Section 379A IPC which defines the offence of snatching under the Indian Penal Code.
Official Legal Text
Snatching means theft committed by sudden or forceful seizing or grabbing of property from any person or from his immediate possession, without his consent and with the intent to permanently deprive him of it.
What This IPC Section Means – Explained in Simple Words
Section 379A defines 'snatching' as a specific type of theft that involves grabbing someone's property suddenly and forcefully.
Purpose
To recognize and define snatching as a distinct and serious form of theft involving personal confrontation and surprise.
Bailable or Not Bailable & Punishment
Bailable: Bailable, Punishment: Rigorous imprisonment which may extend to 3 years and fine.
Key Legal Meaning
The act must involve: 1. Sudden seizing of property 2. From a person or their possession 3. Without consent 4. With intent to permanently deprive.
Illustrative Example
A person riding a bike suddenly grabs a woman's handbag from her shoulder and rides away — this is snatching under Section 379A.
Difference from Robbery
Unlike robbery, snatching does not always involve bodily harm or fear. It is sudden and forceful theft without prolonged struggle.
Victim Awareness
Snatching usually happens so quickly that the victim has little or no time to react or resist the act.
Related Sections
Linked to Section 379 (Theft), Section 356 (Assault to steal), and Section 379B (Punishment for snatching).
FAQs
What does Section 379A IPC define?
It defines the act of snatching as a specific form of theft involving sudden and forceful taking of property.
What qualifies as snatching under IPC?
Snatching is theft by sudden seizing or grabbing from a person or their immediate possession without consent.
Where does Section 379A apply?
It applies when theft involves direct personal contact with sudden grabbing, typically in public places.
Can you give a practical example for Section 379A?
A biker grabs a woman’s chain while riding past — that’s snatching as per Section 379A.
Is Section 379A linked with other IPC sections?
Yes, it is closely related to Sections 379 (theft) and 379B (punishment for snatching).
How do courts apply Section 379A?
Courts check for suddenness, lack of consent, and possession to establish snatching.
Is snatching under Section 379A bailable?
Yes, Section 379A is a bailable offence as it only defines the act and not the punishment.