What is Section 431 IPC? Mischief by Injury to Public Road, Bridge, River or Channel
Published on: Lawiz Team
Learn about Section 431 IPC: Meaning, scope, punishment, examples.
Official Legal Text
Whoever commits mischief by doing any act which renders or which he knows to be likely to render any public road, bridge, navigable river or navigable channel impassable or less safe for travelling or conveying property, shall be punished with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to five years, or with fine, or with both.
What This IPC Section Means – Explained in Simple Words
Section 431 punishes anyone who causes damage to a public road, bridge, river, or channel, causing obstruction or inconvenience to the public.
Purpose
To protect public infrastructure like roads, bridges, rivers, and channels from intentional damage.
Bailable or Not Bailable & Punishment
Bailable: Bailable, Punishment: Imprisonment up to 5 years, or fine, or both.
Key Elements
1. The damage must be to a public road, bridge, river, or channel. 2. It must cause obstruction or inconvenience to the public. 3. The act must be intentional or reckless.
Punishment Details
Imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to five years, or a fine, or both.
Illustrative Example
If a person digs a trench across a public road, causing obstruction, they are punishable under Section 431.
Legal Defenses
If the accused can prove that the damage was caused accidentally or with proper authority, they may be acquitted.
Related Sections
Related to Section 430 (Mischief by injury to irrigation) and Section 432 (Mischief by causing inundation).
Important Note
This section applies to damage caused to public infrastructure, not private property.
FAQs
What does Section 431 IPC define?
Mischief by injury to public road, bridge, river or channel.
How is 'Mischief by injury to public road, bridge, river or channel' interpreted in law?
It is interpreted based on the Indian Penal Code and relevant case law.
Where is Section 431 IPC applicable?
Its application depends on the legal context and the nature of the offence involved.
Can you give a practical example for Section 431?
Examples include real-life cases involving mischief by injury to public road, bridge, river or channel.
Is Section 431 used along with other IPC sections?
Yes, it is often cited alongside related criminal provisions.
How do courts interpret Section 431 IPC?
Courts interpret it using past judgments and statutory interpretations.
Why is Section 431 significant?
It holds importance in the framework of criminal law.