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.
IPC Section 355: Simplified Explanation
IPC Section 355 of the Indian Penal Code deals with the offence of “assault or criminal force with intent to dishonour person, otherwise than on grave provocation.” This section applies when an individual uses assault or criminal force against another person with the specific intention of dishonouring or humiliating that person and the act is not provoked by any grave and sudden cause.
Key elements of this section include:
- Assault or Criminal Force: The individual must commit an act of assault (as defined under IPC Section 351) or use criminal force (as defined under IPC Section 350) against another person.
- Intent to Dishonour: The act must be done to dishonour or humiliate the victim.
- Absence of Grave Provocation: The act must not be committed under grave and sudden provocation from the victim.
Is IPC Section 355 Bailable?
Yes, IPC Section 355 is a bailable offence. This means that an individual charged under this section can obtain bail from the police station or through the court, depending on the specifics of the case and the authorities’ discretion.
IPC Section 355 Punishment
The Punishment under IPC Section 355 for assault or criminal force with intent to dishonour a person includes:
- Imprisonment for a term that may extend to two years,
- or with a fine,
- Or with both.
The Punishment reflects the serious nature of using force or assault to intentionally dishonour or humiliate someone.
Example of IPC Section 355
A real-life example of IPC Section 355 involved a case where a man publicly slapped another man during a heated argument to humiliate him in front of others. The slap was intended to dishonour the victim and was not provoked by any grave or sudden cause. The offender was charged under IPC Section 355 for assault with intent to dishonour. The court found him guilty and sentenced him to imprisonment and a fine. This case highlighted the legal consequences of using force to intentionally humiliate or dishonour another person.
In another instance, a student poured ink on a classmate’s clothes to humiliate her in front of the entire class. The act was premeditated and intended to cause embarrassment. The student was charged under IPC Section 355 for using criminal force with the intent to dishonour. This case underscored the importance of respecting others and the legal repercussions for actions intended to degrade or dishonour individuals.
