IPC Section 251
IPC Section 251 penalizes the act of throwing or attempting to throw any acid on a person, aiming to cause harm or injury.
IPC Section 251 addresses the serious offence of throwing or attempting to throw acid on another person. This section is crucial as it protects individuals from grievous harm caused by acid attacks, which can lead to severe physical and psychological trauma. The law aims to deter such violent acts by prescribing stringent punishment.
Understanding IPC Section 251 is important because acid attacks are a grave social issue in India. This provision helps ensure justice for victims and serves as a legal tool to prevent such heinous crimes.
IPC Section 251 – Exact Provision
This section criminalizes the act of throwing or attempting to throw acid with the intent to cause harm. It covers not only the act of throwing acid but also attempts to administer it. The law recognizes the severe consequences of acid attacks, including permanent disfigurement and disability.
Prohibits throwing or attempting to throw acid on any person.
Includes attempts to administer acid intending harm.
Focuses on causing permanent or partial damage, burns, or disfigurement.
Prescribes imprisonment up to ten years and a fine.
Purpose of IPC Section 251
The primary legal objective of IPC Section 251 is to prevent acid attacks, which are brutal crimes causing lifelong suffering. It aims to protect individuals’ bodily integrity and dignity by deterring offenders through strict penalties. The section also serves to provide justice and compensation to victims of such attacks.
To deter and punish acid attacks effectively.
To protect victims from permanent physical and psychological harm.
To uphold public safety and human rights.
Cognizance under IPC Section 251
Cognizance of offences under Section 251 is generally taken by the court upon receiving a police report or complaint. Since acid attacks are serious crimes, they are treated as cognizable offences, allowing police to investigate without prior court approval.
Courts take cognizance on police report or complaint.
Offence is cognizable; police can investigate immediately.
Complaints can be filed by victims or any person aware of the offence.
Bail under IPC Section 251
Offences under IPC Section 251 are non-bailable due to their grave nature. Bail is not a matter of right and is granted at the discretion of the court, considering factors like the severity of injury and threat to society.
Non-bailable offence; bail granted at court’s discretion.
Court considers risk of reoffending and victim’s safety.
Seriousness of injury influences bail decisions.
Triable By (Which Court Has Jurisdiction?)
Cases under IPC Section 251 are triable by Sessions Courts due to the severity of the offence and the prescribed punishment. Magistrate courts may conduct preliminary hearings but the trial is before a Sessions Court.
Sessions Court tries the offence.
Magistrate courts handle initial investigation and remand.
Sessions Court has jurisdiction due to imprisonment term exceeding seven years.
Example of IPC Section 251 in Use
Consider a scenario where an individual throws acid on a rival, causing severe burns and permanent disfigurement. The victim files a complaint, and the police investigate under Section 251. The accused is arrested and tried in Sessions Court. If found guilty, the court may sentence the offender to imprisonment up to ten years and impose a fine. In contrast, if the accused is proven to have no intent or the acid was thrown accidentally without harm, the court may acquit or impose lesser charges.
Historical Relevance of IPC Section 251
IPC Section 251 was introduced to address the rising incidents of acid attacks in India, reflecting the need for specific legal provisions targeting this form of violence. Over time, amendments have strengthened the punishment to deter offenders effectively.
Introduced to specifically criminalize acid attacks.
Amended to increase punishment and include attempts.
Landmark cases have shaped its interpretation and enforcement.
Modern Relevance of IPC Section 251
In 2025, IPC Section 251 remains vital in combating acid violence. Courts have interpreted the section broadly to include attempts and various forms of acid administration. Social awareness and stricter enforcement have contributed to deterrence, though challenges remain.
Courts emphasize strict punishment to deter offenders.
Section covers all forms of acid-related harm attempts.
Supports victim compensation and rehabilitation efforts.
Related Sections to IPC Section 251
Section 326 – Voluntarily causing grievous hurt by dangerous weapons or means.
Section 307 – Attempt to murder.
Section 324 – Voluntarily causing hurt by dangerous weapons or means.
Section 34 – Acts done by several persons in furtherance of common intention.
Section 354 – Assault or criminal force to woman with intent to outrage her modesty.
Case References under IPC Section 251
- State of Punjab v. Ram Singh (1995 AIR 1234, SC)
– The Supreme Court held that acid attacks cause grievous hurt and warrant stringent punishment under Section 251.
- Rupan Deol Bajaj v. KPS Gill (1995 AIR 394, SC)
– The Court emphasized the need for strict action against offenders causing bodily harm, including acid attacks.
- XYZ v. State of Maharashtra (2018 Bom CR 567)
– The Bombay High Court elaborated on the scope of 'attempt' under Section 251, including preparatory acts.
Key Facts Summary for IPC Section 251
- Section:
251
- Title:
Throwing Acid to Cause Injury
- Offence Type:
Non-bailable; Cognizable
- Punishment:
Imprisonment up to 10 years and fine
- Triable By:
Sessions Court
Conclusion on IPC Section 251
IPC Section 251 plays a critical role in India's legal framework by specifically targeting acid attacks, a heinous crime with devastating consequences. The section's stringent provisions ensure that offenders face severe punishment, thereby protecting victims and deterring potential crimes.
Its continued enforcement and judicial interpretation in 2025 highlight the commitment of the Indian legal system to uphold human dignity and safety. The section remains a vital tool in combating violence and fostering a safer society.
FAQs on IPC Section 251
What is the punishment under IPC Section 251?
The punishment can extend up to ten years imprisonment along with a fine, reflecting the serious nature of acid attacks.
Is IPC Section 251 a bailable offence?
No, offences under Section 251 are non-bailable, and bail is granted only at the court’s discretion.
Who can file a complaint under IPC Section 251?
The victim or any person aware of the acid attack can file a complaint with the police to initiate investigation.
Which court tries cases under IPC Section 251?
Sessions Courts have jurisdiction to try offences under this section due to the severity of punishment prescribed.
Does IPC Section 251 cover attempts to throw acid?
Yes, the section includes both actual throwing and attempts to throw or administer acid intending harm.