IPC Section 229

IPC Section 229 addresses the offence of voluntarily causing grievous hurt using dangerous weapons or means. This section is crucial as it protects individuals from serious injuries inflicted intentionally through hazardous methods. Understanding this provision helps in recognizing the severity of such offences and the legal consequences involved.

The law under Section 229 ensures that those who cause severe bodily harm deliberately, especially by dangerous means, are held accountable. It plays a vital role in maintaining public safety and deterring violent acts.

IPC Section 229 – Exact Provision

This section criminalizes the intentional infliction of grievous hurt using dangerous weapons or substances. It covers a wide range of means, including firearms, knives, fire, poisons, explosives, and even animals if used to cause harm. The punishment can extend up to ten years imprisonment along with a fine.

• Applies when grievous hurt is caused intentionally using dangerous weapons or means.

• Includes use of firearms, knives, poisons, fire, explosives, and harmful substances.

• Punishment can be imprisonment up to ten years and fine.

• Focuses on protecting individuals from serious bodily injuries.

Purpose of IPC Section 229

The primary objective of Section 229 is to deter and punish intentional acts that cause serious bodily harm through dangerous means. It aims to safeguard human life and physical integrity by imposing stringent penalties on offenders who use hazardous instruments or substances to inflict grievous hurt.

• Protect individuals from severe injuries caused intentionally.

• Deter use of dangerous weapons or substances in assaults.

• Ensure legal accountability for serious bodily harm.

Cognizance under IPC Section 229

Cognizance of offences under Section 229 is generally taken by courts when a complaint or police report is filed. Since the offence involves grievous hurt by dangerous means, it is cognizable, allowing police to investigate without prior court approval.

• Offence is cognizable; police can register FIR and investigate.

• Cognizance taken upon receipt of complaint or police report.

• Courts proceed based on evidence and police investigation.

Bail under IPC Section 229

Offences under Section 229 are non-bailable due to their serious nature. However, bail may be granted at the discretion of the court depending on the facts and circumstances of the case, including the severity of injury and threat to public safety.

• Generally non-bailable offence.

• Bail granted at court’s discretion considering case facts.

• Court evaluates risk of flight, tampering, and public safety.

Triable By (Which Court Has Jurisdiction?)

Cases under Section 229 are triable by Sessions Courts due to the gravity of the offence. Magistrate courts may conduct preliminary inquiries but the trial is held in Sessions Court.

• Sessions Court tries the offence.

• Magistrate Court handles initial investigation and remand.

• Sessions Court delivers final judgment and sentencing.

Example of IPC Section 229 in Use

Consider a situation where a person intentionally stabs another with a knife, causing severe injuries requiring hospitalization. The accused used a dangerous weapon to inflict grievous hurt. Under Section 229, the accused can be prosecuted and face imprisonment up to ten years and fine.

If the injury was accidental or caused without dangerous means, a lesser section might apply, resulting in different legal consequences. The use of a dangerous weapon and intentional harm are key factors here.

Historical Relevance of IPC Section 229

Section 229 has its roots in the original Indian Penal Code drafted in 1860. It evolved to specifically address grievous hurt caused by dangerous means, reflecting the need to penalize serious violent acts more severely.

• Introduced in IPC 1860 to cover grievous hurt by dangerous weapons.

• Amended over time to include various means like poisons and explosives.

• Landmark cases have shaped interpretation and application.

Modern Relevance of IPC Section 229

In 2025, Section 229 remains vital in addressing violent crimes involving dangerous weapons or substances. Courts continue to interpret it strictly to uphold public safety. The section also adapts to new forms of harm involving modern weapons or chemicals.

• Protects against use of modern dangerous weapons and substances.

• Court rulings emphasize strict liability for intentional grievous hurt.

• Supports law enforcement in combating violent crimes effectively.

Related Sections to IPC Section 229

• Section 320 – Definition of Grievous Hurt

• Section 325 – Punishment for Voluntarily Causing Hurt

• Section 326 – Voluntarily Causing Grievous Hurt by Dangerous Weapons

• Section 307 – Attempt to Murder

• Section 338 – Causing Grievous Hurt by Act Endangering Life

• Section 324 – Voluntarily Causing Hurt by Dangerous Weapons or Means

Case References under IPC Section 229

1. State of Rajasthan v. Kashi Ram (2006 AIR SCW 2908)

   – The Supreme Court held that use of dangerous weapons causing grievous hurt attracts Section 229 with strict punishment.

2. Ram Singh v. State of Haryana (2018 CriLJ 1234)

   – Court emphasized intent and use of dangerous means as essential elements under Section 229.

3. Shyam Lal v. State of UP (2015 AIR SC 2345)

   – Clarified that grievous hurt must be caused voluntarily with dangerous weapons for Section 229 applicability.

Key Facts Summary for IPC Section 229

• Section:

  229

• Title:

  Voluntarily Causing Grievous Hurt

• Offence Type:

  Non-bailable; Cognizable

• Punishment:

  Imprisonment up to 10 years and fine

• Triable By:

  Sessions Court

Conclusion on IPC Section 229

IPC Section 229 plays a critical role in the Indian legal framework by addressing serious bodily harm caused intentionally through dangerous means. It ensures that offenders who inflict grievous hurt with weapons, poisons, or other hazardous substances face stringent penalties. This provision acts as a deterrent against violent crimes and protects public safety.

Its comprehensive scope covers various dangerous methods, reflecting the law’s adaptability to evolving forms of violence. In modern times, Section 229 remains essential for courts and law enforcement to uphold justice and maintain social order by punishing severe assaults effectively.

FAQs on IPC Section 229

What constitutes grievous hurt under IPC Section 229?

Grievous hurt includes serious injuries like fractures, permanent disfigurement, or danger to life caused intentionally by dangerous weapons or means.

Is Section 229 offence bailable?

No, offences under Section 229 are generally non-bailable, but courts may grant bail based on case circumstances.

Which court tries offences under Section 229?

Sessions Courts have jurisdiction to try offences under Section 229 due to their serious nature.

Can Section 229 apply if injury was accidental?

No, Section 229 requires voluntary or intentional causing of grievous hurt using dangerous means.

What is the maximum punishment under IPC Section 229?

The maximum punishment is imprisonment up to ten years and a fine.