What Is BNS Section 334?

Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 - Section 334: Dishonestly Breaking Open Receptacle Containing Property

Whoever dishonestly or with intent to commit mischief, breaks open or unfastens any closed receptacle which contains or which he believes to contain property, shall be punished with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to two years, or with fine, or with both.

Whoever, being entrusted with any closed receptacle which contains or which he believes to contain property, without having authority to open the same, dishonestly, or with intent to commit mischief, breaks open or unfastens that receptacle, shall be punished with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to three years, or with fine, or with both.

Brief Detail

BNS Section 334 addresses the act of breaking open a closed receptacle containing property, either with dishonest intent or with intent to commit mischief, distinguishing between general acts and those involving entrusted property.

Question & Answers

Q1: What is the punishment for breaking open a receptacle with dishonest intent?

A1: The punishment for dishonestly breaking open a receptacle is imprisonment for up to two years, along with a possible fine.

Q2: How does the punishment differ if the receptacle is entrusted to the offender?

A2: If the offender is entrusted with the receptacle and breaks it open without authority, the punishment increases to imprisonment for up to three years.

Q3: Is there a difference between breaking open a receptacle and merely opening it?

A3: Yes, breaking open implies forceful action, while opening may not necessarily involve such force, and is punishable under different circumstances.

Q4: Can a person be punished for believing the receptacle contains property even if it is empty?

A4: Yes, if the person believes it contains property and acts dishonestly, they can still be held liable under this section.

Example

Example Scenario:

If A forcibly breaks open B's locked drawer believing it contains cash, intending to steal it, A can be punished under Section 334 for dishonest breaking open of a receptacle.

Summary

BNS Section 334 establishes penalties for dishonestly breaking open receptacles containing property, with distinctions based on whether the offender was entrusted with the receptacle, ensuring accountability for such actions.