What is Section 494 IPC Marrying again during lifetime of husband or wife?
Published on: Lawiz Team
Learn about Section 494 IPC: Meaning, scope, punishment, examples.
Official Legal Text
Whoever, having a husband or wife living, marries in any case in which such marriage is void by reason of its taking place during the life of such husband or wife, 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 494 punishes anyone who marries again during the lifetime of their spouse, without legally ending the previous marriage.
Purpose
To prevent bigamy (multiple marriages) without lawful divorce or dissolution of the previous marriage.
Bailable or Not Bailable & Punishment
Bailable: Non-Bailable (for Hindus, Jains, Buddhists, and Sikhs under Hindu Marriage Act); Bailable (for others), Punishment: Imprisonment up to 7 years, and fine.
Punishment Details
Imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to seven years, and a fine.
Illustrative Example
If a married person marries another without divorcing their spouse, they are punishable under Section 494.
Related Sections
Related to Section 495 (Concealing previous marriage).
FAQs
What does Section 494 IPC define?
Marrying again during lifetime of husband or wife.
How is 'Marrying again during lifetime of husband or wife' interpreted in law?
It is interpreted based on the Indian Penal Code and relevant case law.
Where is Section 494 IPC applicable?
Its application depends on the legal context and the nature of the offence involved.
Can you give a practical example for Section 494?
Examples include real-life cases involving marrying again during lifetime of husband or wife.
Is Section 494 used along with other IPC sections?
Yes, it is often cited alongside related criminal provisions.
How do courts interpret Section 494 IPC?
Courts interpret it using past judgments and statutory interpretations.
Why is Section 494 significant?
It holds importance in the framework of criminal law.