Whoever abets the commission of an offence by the public generally or by any number or class of persons exceeding ten, shall be punished with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to three years, or with fine, or with both.
Illustration
A affixes in a public place a placard instigating a sect consisting of more than ten members to meet at a certain time and place, for the purpose of attacking the members of an adverse sect, while engaged in a procession. A has committed the offence defined in this section.
Classification of Offence
Punishment—Imprisonment for 3 years, or fine, or both – According as offence abetted is cognizable or non-cognizable – According as offence abetted is bailable or non-bailable – Triable by court by which offence abetted is triable – Non-compoundable.
IPC Section 117: Simplified Explanation
IPC Section 117 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) addresses the abetment of an offence when it involves the participation of the public or more than ten persons. This section is particularly significant as it deals with situations where the encouragement or assistance provided by an individual can incite a larger group, thereby magnifying the potential for harm and chaos.
Here is a detailed breakdown of IPC Section 117:
- Definition and Scope: Section 117 focuses on abetting an offence that is expected to be committed by the public at large or by a group of more than ten people. This provision extends the concept of abetment to scenarios where the facilitator encourages or assists in the planning or executing of a crime by a significant number of individuals.
- Critical Elements of the Section:
- Abetment: The person charged under this section must have engaged in actions or provided support that encouraged or aided a large group’s commission of a crime.
- Public or More Than Ten Persons: The law specifically mentions the involvement of the public or a group larger than ten people to highlight the gravity and potential widespread impact of such offences.
- Punishment Under Section 117: The penalties for abetment under this section are severe, reflecting the potential for more significant harm when offences involve larger groups. The punishment is generally proportional to the seriousness of the offence being abetted and the number of people involved.
- Legal Implications: This section is crucial for preventing mass disturbances, riots, and other large-scale criminal activities. It allows authorities to take preemptive action against individuals who try to incite or facilitate crimes that could lead to significant public disorder or harm.
- Examples: If a person instigates a crowd to engage in rioting or violence, even if the actual violence does not occur, they can be charged under this section for abetting the commission of such offences by the public. Similarly, if someone provides financial support or logistical planning for a crime expected to involve more than ten people, they could be held accountable under this section.
Understanding IPC Section 117 is essential for comprehending how the law addresses the complexities of crimes that involve large groups and aims to maintain public order by holding accountable those who attempt to disturb it through abetment.
