BNS Section 317
If I keep stolen goods, what are the legal consequences?
Short answer
If you knowingly keep stolen property, you can face up to three years in prison, a fine, or both.
In detail
The law defines stolen property as anything taken by theft, extortion, robbery, cheating, misappropriation, or breach of trust, whether the transfer happened inside or outside India. If the property later ends up with the rightful owner, it is no longer considered stolen. Anyone who knowingly receives or keeps such property can be punished with up to three years’ imprisonment, a fine, or both. The penalty becomes harsher if the property was taken by dacoity or from a known dacoit gang—life imprisonment or up to ten years, plus a fine. Habitual dealing in stolen property or helping to conceal it also carries life imprisonment or up to ten years and a fine. The law aims to deter the possession and trade of stolen goods and to punish those who aid in hiding them.
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 if I unknowingly receive stolen property?
- Can I be charged if I help hide stolen goods?
- What is the penalty for dealing in stolen property?
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.