Whoever commits mischief by killing, poisoning, maiming, or rendering useless any animal shall be punished with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to five years, or with fine, or with both.
Simplified Explanation
Section 325 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 (BNS 2023) addresses the offense of mischief by killing, poisoning, maiming, or rendering useless an animal.
Key Provisions of Section 325:
- Offense of Mischief Involving Animals:
- A person who commits mischief by:
- Killing any animal,
- Poisoning any animal,
- Maiming any animal (i.e., causing injury that results in permanent damage or impairment), or
- Rendering useless (i.e., making the animal incapable of performing its functions) any animal,
- Shall be punished.
- A person who commits mischief by:
- Punishment:
- Imprisonment of either description (rigorous or simple) for a term which may extend to five years, or
- Fine, or
- Both imprisonment and fine.
Summary:
Section 325 defines and punishes the act of mischief that involves harming animals through killing, poisoning, maiming, or rendering them useless. The offender may face up to five years of imprisonment, along with a fine, or both.
