Whoever assaults or uses criminal force to any person, intending thereby to dishonour that person, otherwise than on grave and sudden provocation given by that person, shall be punished with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to two years, or with fine, or with both.
Simplified Explanation
Section 133 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 deals with assault or criminal force used with the intent to dishonor another person.
Section 133 – Assault or Criminal Force with Intent to Dishonour Person, Otherwise Than on Grave Provocation
- Offense: This section makes it an offense for anyone to:
- Assault or use criminal force against another person,
- With the intent to dishonor that person (e.g., to cause humiliation or harm their dignity),
- Otherwise than on grave and sudden provocation given by the person being assaulted.
- Punishment: The offender is subject to:
- Imprisonment of either description (simple or rigorous) for a term which may extend to two years,
- Fine, or
- Both imprisonment and fine.
Explanation:
This section specifically addresses situations where the assault or use of force is intended to dishonor or humiliate another person. Grave and sudden provocation is the only exception that might reduce the punishment, meaning that if the assault happens due to serious provocation from the victim, the punishment could be less severe.
Key Points:
- Intent to dishonor: The act of assault or using force must be with the clear intention of humiliating, degrading, or dishonoring the person.
- Exclusion of provocation: If the person assaulted provoked the attacker in a serious and sudden manner, the offense may be mitigated.
- Punishment: The law mandates a punishment of up to two years in prison, a fine, or both, highlighting the seriousness of using force to dishonor someone.
Section 133 is designed to protect individuals from assault with the intent to disgrace or harm their dignity, reinforcing the principle that such actions are unacceptable under the law.
