Section 57 of BNS 2023: Abetment by Instigating the Public or Large Groups
Overview
Section 57 of BNS 2023 addresses the offense of abetment by instigating the public or large groups, specifically targeting situations where the abettor incites more than ten individuals to commit an offense. The section ensures that individuals who provoke large-scale criminal activities are held accountable.
Punishment
- Imprisonment: Up to seven years
- Fine: Additional financial penalties may be imposed
Key Elements
- Public or Large Group: The abetment involves inciting the public generally or a group exceeding ten persons.
- Instigation: The act of encouraging or provoking the group to commit an offense.
- Commission of Offense: The offense is instigated by the abettor’s actions.
Examples
- Public Instigation: A person affixes a placard in a public place, inciting a sect of more than ten members to attack another group during a procession. This act is punishable under Section 57.
- Group Violence: An individual uses social media to incite a large crowd to riot against a community. The instigator is liable for abetment under this section.
- Mass Vandalism: A person organizes a gathering and provokes attendees to vandalize public property. This act, involving more than ten people, is covered by Section 57.
Legislative Intent
The legislative intent behind Section 57 of BNS 2023 is to prevent large-scale disturbances and violence by holding instigators accountable. By imposing severe penalties for abetment involving large groups, the law aims to deter individuals from provoking mass criminal activities and maintain public order.
Conclusion
Section 57 of BNS 2023 is crucial for maintaining public order by holding individuals accountable for inciting large groups to commit offenses. By defining clear penalties for such abetment, the section promotes justice and deters mass instigation.