Offence Description

Any person who commits an act rashly or negligently, which endangers human life or the personal safety of others, shall be punished according to the severity of the consequences. The punishment is as follows:

• General Punishment: Imprisonment for up to three months, or a fine up to 2,500 rupees, or both.
• If Hurt is Caused: Imprisonment for up to six months, or a fine up to 5,000 rupees, or both.
• If Grievous Hurt is Caused: Imprisonment for up to three years, or a fine up to 10,000 rupees, or both.

Key Points in BNS-125

The following key points clarify the meaning and consequences of rash or negligent acts under section BNS-125:

Definition of Rash or Negligent Acts

Rash or negligent acts refer to actions carried out carelessly or without adequate caution, resulting in a danger to human life or the safety of others. These acts may not be intentional but present significant risks due to reckless behavior.

General Punishment

For individuals engaging in rash or negligent behavior that endangers others, the punishment may include:

• Imprisonment: Up to three months, either rigorous or simple imprisonment.
• Fine: Up to 2,500 rupees, or both imprisonment and fine.

Enhanced Punishment Based on Consequences

The punishment is escalated depending on the harm caused:

• If Hurt is Caused:
  • Imprisonment: Up to six months.
  • Fine: Up to 5,000 rupees, or both.
• If Grievous Hurt is Caused:
  • Imprisonment: Up to three years.
  • Fine: Up to 10,000 rupees, or both.

Example

Consider the case where, during a wedding, Vijay fires celebratory gunshots into the air, which unintentionally strike and cause grievous harm to Amit. In this case, Vijay would be guilty under Section 125 of the BNS for endangering life and causing grievous harm.

Offences and Punishment

1. Offence: Endangering Human Life or Personal Safety

Punishment: Imprisonment for up to 3 months, or a fine up to 2,500 rupees, or both.

Cognizable or Non-cognizable: Cognizable

Bailable or Non-bailable: Bailable

By what Court Triable: Any Magistrate

2. Offence: Where Hurt is Caused

Punishment: Imprisonment for up to 6 months, or a fine up to 5,000 rupees, or both.

Cognizable or Non-cognizable: Cognizable

Bailable or Non-bailable: Bailable

By what Court Triable: Any Magistrate

3. Offence: Where Grievous Hurt is Caused

Punishment: Imprisonment for up to 3 years, or a fine up to 10,000 rupees, or both.

Cognizable or Non-cognizable: Cognizable

Bailable or Non-bailable: Bailable

By what Court Triable: Any Magistrate