IPC 334 vs BNS 334 – Hurt or Grievous Hurt for Extortion or Coercion
Indian Penal Code (IPC)
Bhartiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS)
Section: IPC 334
Voluntarily Causing Hurt to Extort Property, or to Compel to an Illegal Act (with Grievous Hurt)
About IPC Section
Section 334 of the Indian Penal Code, 1860, deals with cases where a person voluntarily causes hurt or grievous hurt to extort property, valuable security, or compel someone to commit an illegal act. Unlike IPC 330 and 331, this section specifically addresses hurt inflicted in the course of coercion or extortion.
Key points:
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The injury may range from simple hurt to grievous hurt, depending on the act.
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The motive must involve coercion, extortion, or compelling an illegal act.
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Punishment: Imprisonment up to 7 years, and also liable to fine.
For example, if someone assaults a shopkeeper causing serious injury to force them to hand over money or sign illegal documents, it falls under IPC 334. This section ensures protection against violent coercion with intent to commit crime.
Section: BNS 334
Voluntarily Causing Hurt to Extort Property, or to Compel to an Illegal Act (with Grievous Hurt)
About BNS Section
Section 334 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, mirrors IPC 334. It punishes acts where a person voluntarily causes hurt or grievous hurt to extort property or compel illegal acts.
Key points:
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Covers hurt and grievous hurt inflicted with criminal intent for extortion or coercion.
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Punishment: Imprisonment up to 7 years, and also liable to fine.
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Protects individuals from violent coercion and illegal extortion.
For example, physically assaulting a victim to obtain property or valuable security qualifies under BNS 334. The section ensures continuity in addressing coercive acts involving bodily harm.