Bailabel Type : bailable

Description

IPC Section 425 defines the offense of mischief under Indian law. It explains what constitutes mischief and lays the foundation for various specific offenses related to property damage described in subsequent sections.

Description of IPC Section 425:

1. Definition of Mischief:
   A person commits mischief if they:

   • Intentionally cause wrongful loss or damage to another person’s property.
   • Destroy, alter, or diminish the value or utility of that property.
   • Act with intent or knowledge that such an effect will likely occur.

2. Scope:

   • The offense applies to both movable and immovable property.
   • The damage may result from direct action (e.g., breaking an object) or indirect means (e.g., poisoning livestock or diverting water).

3. Intent or Knowledge:

   • The act must involve either an intention to cause harm or knowledge that harm is likely to occur.

Punishment

The punishment for mischief is not explicitly mentioned in Section 425 itself. Instead, it refers to IPC Section 426, which prescribes penalties for general acts of mischief:

1. Imprisonment:

   • Simple imprisonment for a term of up to 3 months, or

2. Fine:

   • A monetary fine, or

3. Both:

   • Both imprisonment and a fine may be imposed.