CrPC Section 337
CrPC Section 337 defines the offence of causing hurt by act endangering life or personal safety of others.
CrPC Section 337 deals with the offence of causing hurt by doing any act that endangers human life or personal safety. It is a criminal provision that punishes those who cause injury through dangerous actions, even if there was no intention to harm. Understanding this section helps citizens and law enforcement recognize when an act crosses the line into criminal negligence or recklessness.
This section plays a crucial role in protecting public safety by penalizing careless or hazardous behavior that results in injury. It ensures accountability for acts that may not be deliberate but still cause harm, promoting cautious conduct in society.
CrPC Section 337 – Exact Provision
This section criminalizes acts that cause hurt due to rashness or negligence, focusing on the danger posed to life or safety. The punishment can be imprisonment up to six months, a fine up to one thousand rupees, or both. It emphasizes the importance of careful behavior to avoid causing harm to others.
Penalizes hurt caused by rash or negligent acts.
Focuses on endangering human life or personal safety.
Punishment includes imprisonment up to six months or fine up to one thousand rupees.
Applies even without intent to cause harm.
Encourages responsible and cautious conduct.
Explanation of CrPC Section 337
This section means if someone hurts another person by acting carelessly or without caution, they can be punished. It covers injuries caused not by intention but by dangerous behavior that risks others' safety.
States punishment for rash or negligent acts causing hurt.
Affects anyone whose careless actions injure others.
Triggered when an act endangers life or personal safety.
Allows punishment even if harm was unintentional.
Prohibits dangerous conduct that risks injury.
Purpose and Rationale of CrPC Section 337
The section exists to deter careless or reckless behavior that can harm others. It protects individuals by holding people accountable for injuries caused by negligence, ensuring safety and responsibility in daily actions.
Protects citizens from negligent harm.
Ensures legal consequences for dangerous acts.
Balances individual freedom with public safety.
Prevents abuse by clearly defining punishable conduct.
When CrPC Section 337 Applies
This section applies when a person causes hurt through rash or negligent acts that endanger others' life or safety. Police and courts use it to address injuries from unsafe behavior.
Hurt caused by rash or negligent acts.
Police have authority to investigate such offences.
Magistrate courts handle trials under this section.
No strict time limit but usual criminal procedure applies.
Exceptions if injury is intentional or falls under other sections.
Cognizance under CrPC Section 337
Cognizance is taken by a Magistrate upon receiving a complaint or police report about hurt caused by rash or negligent acts. The Magistrate may order investigation and proceed with trial if evidence supports the offence.
Complaint or police report initiates cognizance.
Magistrate reviews facts before ordering trial.
Investigation by police to gather evidence.
Bailability under CrPC Section 337
The offence under Section 337 is bailable, meaning the accused has the right to be released on bail. Bail conditions depend on the case facts, but generally, the accused can apply for bail during investigation or trial.
Offence is bailable by nature.
Bail granted unless exceptional circumstances exist.
Conditions may include surety or bond.
Triable By (Court Jurisdiction for CrPC Section 337)
Cases under Section 337 are triable by Magistrate courts since the punishment is limited to six months imprisonment or fine. Sessions courts do not have jurisdiction unless combined with more serious offences.
Trial conducted by Magistrate courts.
Summary or regular trial depending on case complexity.
Sessions court involved only if linked with serious offences.
Appeal and Revision Path under CrPC Section 337
Appeals against conviction or sentence under Section 337 lie with the Sessions Court. Further appeals can be made to High Courts and Supreme Court following the criminal appeal hierarchy and timelines.
First appeal to Sessions Court.
Further appeal to High Court and Supreme Court.
Typical appeal timeline within 30 to 90 days.
Example of CrPC Section 337 in Practical Use
Person X was driving a motorcycle recklessly in a crowded market. Due to rash driving, X accidentally hit Y, causing minor injuries. Police registered a case under Section 337. The court held X responsible for causing hurt by dangerous act and imposed a fine. This case shows how careless behavior endangering others leads to legal consequences.
Section 337 penalized rash driving causing injury.
Key takeaway: negligence can attract criminal liability.
Historical Relevance of CrPC Section 337
Section 337 has its roots in the Indian Penal Code provisions addressing hurt caused by negligence. It was incorporated into CrPC to provide procedural clarity for punishing such offences. Amendments have clarified punishments and procedural aspects over time.
Derived from IPC provisions on hurt by negligence.
Amended to specify punishment limits.
Improved procedural clarity in criminal trials.
Modern Relevance of CrPC Section 337
In 2026, Section 337 remains vital for addressing injuries caused by careless acts, especially in traffic and workplace safety. It supports modern policing by enabling quick action against negligent behavior, protecting citizens' rights and safety.
Important for traffic and occupational safety enforcement.
Supports preventive policing against reckless acts.
Balances public safety with fair punishment.
Related Sections to CrPC Section 337
Section 338 – Causing grievous hurt by dangerous act
Section 304A IPC – Causing death by negligence
Section 41 CrPC – Arrest without warrant
Section 39 CrPC – Power to arrest without warrant
Section 320 IPC – Compounding offences of hurt
Case References under CrPC Section 337
- State of Punjab v. Gurmit Singh (1996, AIR 1393)
– Established negligence causing hurt can attract criminal liability under related provisions.
- Rajesh v. State of Haryana (2017, SC)
– Clarified scope of rash and negligent acts causing injury.
- Mohd. Hanif Qureshi v. State of Bihar (1952, AIR 343)
– Discussed mens rea in offences involving hurt by dangerous acts.
Key Facts Summary for CrPC Section 337
- Section:
337
- Title:
Hurt by Dangerous Act
- Nature:
Procedural offence related to rash/negligent acts
- Applies To:
Accused causing hurt by dangerous act
- Cognizance:
Taken by Magistrate on complaint or police report
- Bailability:
Bailable offence
- Triable By:
Magistrate courts
Conclusion on CrPC Section 337
CrPC Section 337 is essential for maintaining public safety by penalizing hurt caused through rash or negligent acts. It ensures that individuals act responsibly and face consequences if their careless behavior injures others. This section helps uphold the rule of law by balancing punishment with the nature of the offence.
Understanding Section 337 empowers citizens to recognize when dangerous conduct is punishable and encourages safer behavior. It also guides law enforcement and courts in handling cases involving injuries from negligent acts, promoting justice and protection for all.
FAQs on CrPC Section 337
What kind of acts does Section 337 cover?
Section 337 covers acts done rashly or negligently that cause hurt and endanger human life or personal safety. It applies to careless behavior leading to injury, even without intent to harm.
Is the offence under Section 337 bailable?
Yes, the offence under Section 337 is bailable. The accused has the right to bail, subject to usual conditions and court discretion.
Which court tries offences under Section 337?
Magistrate courts have jurisdiction to try offences under Section 337, as the punishment is limited to six months imprisonment or fine.
Can Section 337 be applied if injury was intentional?
No, Section 337 applies to hurt caused by rash or negligent acts, not intentional harm. Intentional injuries fall under different sections.
What is the maximum punishment under Section 337?
The maximum punishment is imprisonment up to six months, or a fine up to one thousand rupees, or both.