What is Section 400 IPC? Punishment for belonging to gang of dacoits
Published on: Lawiz Team
Learn about Section 400 IPC: Punishment for belonging to gang of dacoits
Official Legal Text
Whoever, at any time after the passing of this Act, shall belong to a gang of persons associated for the purpose of habitually committing dacoity, shall be punished with imprisonment for life, or with rigorous imprisonment for a term which may extend to ten years, and shall also be liable to fine.
What This IPC Section Means – Explained in Simple Words
Section 400 punishes anyone who is a member of a gang of dacoits, even if they do not directly commit dacoity.
Purpose
To dismantle organized criminal groups involved in large-scale robberies (dacoity).
Bailable or Not Bailable & Punishment
Bailable: Non-Bailable, Punishment: Imprisonment for life, or rigorous imprisonment up to 10 years, and fine.
Key Elements
1. The accused must be a member of a gang. 2. The gang must be involved in committing dacoity. 3. It is not necessary for the accused to directly participate in a dacoity.
Punishment Details
Imprisonment for life, or rigorous imprisonment for a term which may extend to ten years, and a fine.
Illustrative Example
If a person is a known member of a gang that regularly commits dacoity, they are punishable under Section 400.
Legal Defenses
If the accused can prove that they were not a member of any gang of dacoits, they may be acquitted.
Related Sections
Related to Section 399 (Preparation to commit dacoity) and Section 395 (Punishment for dacoity).
Important Note
Membership in a gang of dacoits is a serious offence, even without direct participation in dacoity.
FAQs
What does Section 400 IPC define?
Punishment for belonging to gang of dacoits.
How is 'Punishment for belonging to gang of dacoits' interpreted in law?
It is interpreted based on the Indian Penal Code and relevant case law.
Where is Section 400 IPC applicable?
Its application depends on the legal context and the nature of the offence involved.
Can you give a practical example for Section 400?
Examples include real-life cases involving punishment for belonging to gang of dacoits.
Is Section 400 used along with other IPC sections?
Yes, it is often cited alongside related criminal provisions.
How do courts interpret Section 400 IPC?
Courts interpret it using past judgments and statutory interpretations.
Why is Section 400 significant?
It holds importance in the framework of criminal law.