BNS Section 120
Can an officer be punished for hurting to force a confession?
Short answer
Yes, anyone who hurts a person to force a confession can be jailed up to seven years, or ten years if the hurt is grievous, plus a fine.
In detail
Section 120 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 makes it an offence to voluntarily cause hurt to a person for the purpose of extracting a confession, obtaining information that may help detect an offence, or forcing the person or someone connected to them to restore property or satisfy a claim. The law applies to any individual, including police or revenue officers. If the hurt caused is simple, the offender can be sentenced to imprisonment for a term that may extend to seven years and also be fined. If the hurt is grievous, the maximum imprisonment increases to ten years, with a fine also applicable. The provision aims to protect citizens from torture or violent coercion used to obtain statements or property.
Related questions
What actions are defined as 'hurt' under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita?
Hurt means causing bodily pain, disease, or infirmity to any person.
Can a husband be forced to financially support his wife, children, or parents if he refuses?
Yes, a magistrate can order him to pay a monthly allowance and enforce it with fines or up to one month in jail.
If I accidentally hurt a consenting adult during a game, can I be criminally liable?
No, you are not criminally liable if the act was not intended to cause death or serious injury and the adult gave consent.
Can I defend myself even if it might harm a child nearby?
Yes, the law permits you to use private defence even if it risks harming an innocent person during a deadly assault.
People also ask
- What is the penalty for causing grievous hurt to force a confession?
- Does this section apply to police officers?
- Can a fine be imposed without imprisonment under this section?
Not legal advice. This is general legal information, not legal advice. Laws change and every case turns on its own facts — speak to a lawyer about your situation.