What Is BNS Section 315?

Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 - Section 315: Dishonest Misappropriation of Property Possessed by Deceased Person at the Time of His Death

Whoever dishonestly misappropriates or converts to his own use any property, knowing that such property was in the possession of a deceased person at the time of that person’s decease, and has not since been in the possession of any person legally entitled to such possession, shall be punished with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to three years, and shall also be liable to fine; and if the offender at the time of such person’s decease was employed by him as a clerk or servant, the imprisonment may extend to seven years.

Illustration

Z dies in possession of furniture and money. His servant A, before the money comes into the possession of any person entitled to such possession, dishonestly misappropriates it. A has committed the offence defined in this section.

Brief Detail

BNS Section 315 addresses the offence of dishonestly misappropriating property that was in the possession of a deceased individual. The penalties include imprisonment of up to three years, with the possibility of extending to seven years if the offender was employed by the deceased.

Question & Answers

Q1: What is the punishment for misappropriating property belonging to a deceased person?

A1: The punishment may include imprisonment for a term extending up to three years, or up to seven years if the offender was employed by the deceased.

Q2: What constitutes dishonestly misappropriating in this context?

A2: It refers to wrongfully taking possession of property with the intention to use it for personal benefit, knowing that it belonged to someone who has died.

Q3: Is the offender liable if the property is later claimed by someone legally entitled to it?

A3: Yes, if the offender misappropriated the property before it was transferred to any legally entitled person, they are liable under this section.

Example

Example Scenario:

If a housekeeper finds cash left behind by a deceased employer and takes it for personal use before any heirs claim it, the housekeeper could be charged under this section.

Summary

BNS Section 315 criminalizes the dishonest misappropriation of property belonging to a deceased person, establishing penalties that vary based on the offender’s relationship to the deceased.