IPC 136 vs BNS 136 – Negligence by Public Servant Causing Injury
Indian Penal Code (IPC)
Bhartiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS)
Section: IPC 136
Negligence by public servant causing injury
About IPC Section
Section 136 of the Indian Penal Code, 1860, deals with negligence by a public servant that causes injury to any person. This section ensures that public officials perform their duties with due diligence and care, holding them accountable for harm caused by their negligence.
Under IPC 136:
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Liability arises when a public servant fails to exercise reasonable care,
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Applies if such negligence results in injury, loss, or harm,
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Punishment includes imprisonment, fines, or other penalties, depending on the severity of the injury.
For example, a municipal officer ignoring safety regulations while inspecting construction sites, leading to injury, can be prosecuted under IPC 136. The law ensures that officials act responsibly and cannot escape accountability for negligent actions affecting the public.
IPC 136 emphasizes duty of care, accountability, and public safety, making it clear that negligence by public servants causing injury is punishable. This strengthens governance and protects citizens from harm due to official carelessness.
Section: BNS 136
Negligence by public servant causing injury
About BNS Section
Section 136 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, mirrors IPC 136, retaining the principle that negligence by public servants resulting in injury or harm is a punishable offense.
Under BNS 136:
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Liability applies to failure of public servants to exercise reasonable care,
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Covers acts where negligence causes injury, loss, or harm to individuals,
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Punishment includes imprisonment, fines, or other penalties, depending on the severity of the outcome.
For instance, a government officer ignoring safety protocols resulting in injury to citizens is punishable under BNS 136. The law ensures official accountability, diligence, and protection of public interest.
By retaining IPC 136’s principles, BNS 136 ensures legal clarity and enforcement, emphasizing that negligence by public servants causing injury is punishable, thereby promoting responsible governance and citizen safety.