What is Section 508 IPC? Act caused by inducing person to believe that he will be rendered an object of the Divine displeasure
Published on: Lawiz Team
Learn about Section 508 IPC: Meaning, scope, punishment, examples.
Official Legal Text
Whoever voluntarily causes or attempts to cause any person to do anything which he is not legally bound to do, or to omit to do anything which he is legally entitled to do, by inducing or attempting to induce that person to believe that he or someone he is interested in will become an object of divine displeasure if he does not do the act or omits the act, shall be punished with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to one year, or with fine, or with both.
What This IPC Section Means – Explained in Simple Words
Section 508 punishes anyone who induces another person to act against their will by making them believe that they will be subjected to divine displeasure.
Purpose
To prevent individuals from being manipulated or coerced into doing something due to fear of divine punishment or religious pressure.
Bailable or Not Bailable & Punishment
Bailable: Bailable, Punishment: Imprisonment up to 1 year, or fine, or both.
Key Elements
1. The accused must induce another person to act. 2. The inducement must be based on the threat of divine displeasure. 3. The person must act out of fear of divine punishment.
Punishment Details
Imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to one year, or with fine, or both.
Legal Defenses
If the accused can prove that the act was done without any intention to cause fear of divine displeasure or was a part of a lawful religious practice, they may be acquitted.
Judicial Interpretation
Courts have clarified that genuine religious advice or teachings do not fall under Section 508 unless they are used to manipulate or threaten.
Illustration
If a person tells another that they will be cursed by a deity if they do not donate money to them, they are punishable under Section 508.
FAQs
What does Section 508 IPC define?
Act caused by inducing person to believe that he will be rendered an object of the Divine displeasure.
How is 'Act caused by inducing person to believe that he will be rendered an object of the Divine displeasure' interpreted in law?
It is interpreted based on the Indian Penal Code and relevant case law.
Where is Section 508 IPC applicable?
Its application depends on the legal context and the nature of the offence involved.
Can you give a practical example for Section 508?
Examples include real-life cases involving act caused by inducing person to believe that he will be rendered an object of the divine displeasure.
Is Section 508 used along with other IPC sections?
Yes, it is often cited alongside related criminal provisions.
How do courts interpret Section 508 IPC?
Courts interpret it using past judgments and statutory interpretations.
Why is Section 508 significant?
It holds importance in the framework of criminal law.