IPC 429 vs BNS 429
● Retained in BNSMischief by killing or maiming cattle, etc., of the value of fifty rupees
Section 429 of the Indian Penal Code, 1860, deals with mischief by killing, maiming, poisoning, or rendering useless any cattle, horse, mule, or sheep valued at fifty rupees or more. This provision is more stringent than IPC 428, reflecting the higher economic value and importance of such animals in agriculture, transport, and livelihood.
Key points:
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Applies when the value of the animal is fifty rupees or more.
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Punishment: Imprisonment up to 2 years, or fine, or both.
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Protects livelihood and property rights by penalizing deliberate harm to valuable animals.
For example, if someone deliberately poisons a farmer’s ox used in ploughing or kills a valuable horse, it constitutes an offence under IPC 429. This section ensures that harmful acts against animals critical to livelihood or business are punished, safeguarding economic and social interests.
Mischief by killing or maiming cattle, etc., of the value of fifty rupees
Section 429 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, mirrors IPC 429 and criminalizes acts of mischief targeting valuable animals like cattle, horses, mules, or sheep worth fifty rupees or more. The law aims to protect both property interests and economic stability dependent on such animals.
Key points:
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Covers killing, maiming, poisoning, or rendering useless animals of Rs. 50 or more.
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Punishment: Imprisonment up to 2 years, or fine, or both, same as IPC.
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Ensures accountability for acts threatening livelihood or economic property.
For instance, if a person harms a farmer’s ox, a mule used for transport, or a sheep of significant value, it would be punishable under BNS 429. This provision reinforces legal protection against malicious acts targeting valuable animals, maintaining consistency with IPC 429.
What changed?
This provision was carried over to the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita with substantially the same wording — the section was renumbered from IPC IPC 429 to BNS BNS 429.