What Is BNSS Section 161?

Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023 - Section 161: Injunction Pending Inquiry

(1) If a Magistrate making an order under section 152 considers that immediate measures should be taken to prevent imminent danger or injury of a serious kind to the public, he may issue such an injunction to the person against whom the order was made, as is required to obviate or prevent such danger or injury pending the determination of the matter.

(2) In default of such person forthwith obeying such injunction, the Magistrate may himself use, or cause to be used, such means as he thinks fit to obviate such danger or to prevent such injury.

(3) No suit shall lie in respect of anything done in good faith by a Magistrate under this section.

Brefe Detail

This section empowers a Magistrate to issue an injunction if there is an imminent threat or serious injury to the public. The Magistrate can take immediate measures and, if necessary, enforce compliance. Additionally, the Magistrate is protected from legal action for actions taken in good faith.

Question & Answers

Q1: What authority does a Magistrate have under Section 161?

A1: A Magistrate can issue an injunction to prevent imminent danger or serious injury to the public.

Q2: What happens if the person does not obey the injunction?

A2: The Magistrate may use means he deems fit to prevent the danger or injury.

Q3: Is the Magistrate liable for actions taken under this section?

A3: No, a Magistrate is not liable for actions taken in good faith under this section.

Example

1. Scenario: A public event is planned, but intelligence suggests there may be a threat to safety.
Action: The Magistrate issues an injunction to prevent the event until a proper assessment can be made.

2. Scenario: A business poses a fire hazard that could endanger nearby residents.
Action: The Magistrate issues an injunction, and if the business owner does not comply, the Magistrate takes necessary steps to mitigate the risk.

Summary

Section 161 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023, allows a Magistrate to issue injunctions to prevent imminent public danger. The section provides enforcement mechanisms and legal immunity for actions taken in good faith.