BNS Section 252
Can I be punished for accepting a gift when helping recover stolen property?
Short answer
Yes, you can be punished unless you use all your power to help catch and convict the offender.
In detail
If you accept a gift or any reward for helping recover property that was taken by a crime, the law says you may be punished. The punishment can be up to two years in prison, a fine, or both. The only way to avoid this penalty is to use every means you have to help bring the person who stole the property to justice. The rule applies to any movable property that was stolen and to any offence that is punishable under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023. It does not matter how big or small the gift is – the law treats any gratification given under pretence or on account of helping as a potential offence unless you actively help catch the offender.
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 does 'gratification under pretence' mean in this context?
- Can I be punished if I only receive a small gift?
- What steps should I take to avoid punishment?
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.