What is Section 387 IPC? Putting person in fear of death or grievous hurt to commit extortion

Published on: Lawiz Team

Learn about Section 387 IPC: Putting person in fear of death or grievous hurt to commit extortion

Official Legal Text

Whoever, in order to the committing of extortion, puts or attempts to put any person in fear of death or of grievous hurt to that person or to any other, shall be punished with imprisonment of either description 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 387 punishes anyone who puts another person in fear of death or grievous hurt with the intention of committing extortion.

Purpose

To ensure strict punishment for anyone who uses threats of death or serious injury to force someone to give up property.

Bailable or Not Bailable & Punishment

Bailable: Non-Bailable, Punishment: Imprisonment up to 10 years, and fine.

Key Elements

1. The victim must be put in fear of death or grievous hurt. 2. The intent must be to commit extortion. 3. The threat must be sufficient to force the victim to deliver property.

Punishment Details

Imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to seven years, and a fine.

Illustrative Example

If a person threatens another with death unless they pay a ransom, it is an offence under Section 387.

Legal Defenses

If the accused can prove that there was no threat of death or grievous hurt, they may be acquitted.

Related Sections

Related to Section 386 (Extortion by putting in fear of death) and Section 388 (Extortion by threat of accusation).

FAQs

What does Section 387 IPC define?

Putting person in fear of death or of grievous hurt, in order to commit extortion.

How is 'Putting person in fear of death or of grievous hurt, in order to commit extortion' interpreted in law?

It is interpreted based on the Indian Penal Code and relevant case law.

Where is Section 387 IPC applicable?

Its application depends on the legal context and the nature of the offence involved.

Can you give a practical example for Section 387?

Examples include real-life cases involving putting person in fear of death or of grievous hurt, in order to commit extortion.

Is Section 387 used along with other IPC sections?

Yes, it is often cited alongside related criminal provisions.

How do courts interpret Section 387 IPC?

Courts interpret it using past judgments and statutory interpretations.

Why is Section 387 significant?

It holds importance in the framework of criminal law.