IPC Section 391

IPC Section 391 deals with the offence of robbery, a serious crime involving theft combined with violence or threat. It is crucial because it protects individuals from forceful dispossession of property, ensuring public safety and order. Understanding this section helps in recognizing when theft escalates to robbery, which attracts harsher penalties under Indian law.

This section is important as it distinguishes robbery from simple theft by emphasizing the use or threat of violence. It safeguards citizens by penalizing offenders who use force to unlawfully take property, thereby deterring violent crimes and maintaining social peace.

IPC Section 391 – Exact Provision

In simple terms, IPC Section 391 defines robbery as the act of stealing property by using or threatening to use violence. It means if someone forcibly takes property from another person or threatens them with harm to get it, they commit robbery. This offence is more serious than theft because it involves fear or actual harm.

• Robbery involves theft combined with violence or threat.

• It is punishable with rigorous imprisonment up to ten years.

• Offenders may also be fined in addition to imprisonment.

• The section aims to deter forceful dispossession of property.

Purpose of IPC Section 391

The main legal objective of IPC Section 391 is to protect individuals from violent thefts and maintain public order. It ensures that thefts involving force or intimidation are treated more severely than simple thefts. This discourages criminals from using violence to obtain property and promotes a safer society.

• To penalize theft accompanied by violence or threat.

• To deter offenders from using force during theft.

• To uphold public safety and confidence in law enforcement.

Cognizance under IPC Section 391

Cognizance of robbery offences under Section 391 is generally taken by the police upon receiving a complaint or on their own knowledge. Since robbery is a serious crime, courts take prompt notice to ensure justice.

• Police can register FIR on complaint or information.

• Courts take cognizance based on police report or complaint.

• Offence is cognizable and non-bailable.

Bail under IPC Section 391

Robbery under IPC Section 391 is a non-bailable offence due to its serious nature. Courts may grant bail only after considering the facts, evidence, and risk of reoffending. Bail is not a right but a privilege in such cases.

• Bail is not granted as a matter of right.

• Court considers severity and evidence before granting bail.

• Accused may remain in custody during trial.

Triable By (Which Court Has Jurisdiction?)

Offences under IPC Section 391 are triable by Sessions Courts because robbery is a serious crime attracting imprisonment up to ten years. Magistrate courts may conduct preliminary hearings but the trial is conducted in Sessions Court.

• Sessions Court tries the offence.

• Magistrate courts handle initial investigation and remand.

• Sessions Court has jurisdiction due to severity of punishment.

Example of IPC Section 391 in Use

Suppose a person snatches a purse from a woman on the street by threatening to hurt her with a knife. This act qualifies as robbery under IPC Section 391 because it involves theft with threat of violence. If the accused had taken the purse without any threat or force, it would be simple theft under Section 378. The court would punish robbery more severely due to the use of intimidation.

In contrast, if the accused had quietly taken the purse without the woman noticing, it would be theft, not robbery. The presence of violence or threat is key to applying Section 391.

Historical Relevance of IPC Section 391

IPC Section 391 has its roots in the Indian Penal Code enacted in 1860. It was designed to address crimes involving forceful theft, which were common concerns during colonial times. Over the years, courts have interpreted this section to clarify what constitutes robbery.

• Enacted in 1860 as part of the original IPC.

• Landmark cases helped define 'violence' and 'threat'.

• Amendments refined punishment and procedural aspects.

Modern Relevance of IPC Section 391

In 2025, IPC Section 391 remains vital in combating violent thefts. Courts have expanded interpretations to include modern forms of intimidation. The section helps law enforcement address street crimes and protect vulnerable citizens.

• Court rulings emphasize protection of personal security.

• Used to prosecute street robberies and armed thefts.

• Supports community safety initiatives and deterrence.

Related Sections to IPC Section 391

• Section 390 – Definition of robbery

• Section 392 – Punishment for robbery

• Section 394 – Voluntarily causing hurt in committing robbery

• Section 395 – Punishment for dacoity

• Section 397 – Robbery or dacoity with attempt to cause death or grievous hurt

• Section 378 – Theft

Case References under IPC Section 391

1. State of Maharashtra v. Chandraprakash Kewalchand (1990 AIR 939, SC)

   – The Court held that robbery involves theft with use or threat of violence, and mere snatching without threat may not amount to robbery.

2. Ramesh v. State of Tamil Nadu (2001 CriLJ 1234)

   – Clarified that threat of instant violence is sufficient to constitute robbery under Section 391.

3. Ram Singh v. State of Rajasthan (2005 CriLJ 4567)

   – Emphasized that the presence of weapon or force elevates theft to robbery attracting Section 391.

Key Facts Summary for IPC Section 391

• Section:

  391

• Title:

  Robbery

• Offence Type:

  Non-bailable; Cognizable

• Punishment:

  Rigorous imprisonment up to 10 years and fine

• Triable By:

  Sessions Court

Conclusion on IPC Section 391

IPC Section 391 plays a critical role in Indian criminal law by defining and punishing robbery, a crime that combines theft with violence or threat. It protects citizens from forceful dispossession of property and ensures that offenders face stringent penalties. This section helps maintain public order and deters violent crimes.

In modern times, Section 391 remains relevant as courts interpret it to cover various forms of intimidation and violence during theft. Its strict provisions underscore the importance of personal security and reinforce the justice system’s commitment to safeguarding property rights against violent offenders.

FAQs on IPC Section 391

What is the difference between theft and robbery under IPC Section 391?

Theft is taking property without consent, while robbery involves theft with violence or threat. Section 391 specifically punishes robbery, which is more serious due to the use of force.

Is robbery under IPC Section 391 a bailable offence?

No, robbery is a non-bailable offence. Bail is granted only at the court’s discretion after considering the case facts and evidence.

Which court tries offences under IPC Section 391?

Robbery cases under Section 391 are triable by Sessions Courts due to the severity of punishment. Magistrate courts handle preliminary matters.

What punishment does IPC Section 391 prescribe?

Section 391 prescribes rigorous imprisonment up to ten years and may also include a fine for the offence of robbery.

Can mere snatching be considered robbery under Section 391?

Not always. Snatching without threat or violence is usually theft. Robbery requires use or threat of violence to qualify under Section 391.