Bailabel Type : bailable

Description

IPC Section 431 addresses the offense of mischief where a person intentionally causes damage or obstruction to public roads, bridges, rivers, or channels that are essential for public use or infrastructure.

Description:

1. Act of Mischief:

   • The offense involves causing intentional damage or obstruction to:
     • Public roads (used for transportation and commuting).
     • Bridges (key infrastructures for travel and connectivity).
     • Rivers or channels (used for water supply, navigation, or irrigation).

2. Resulting Harm:

   • The act must cause diminished utility of the road, bridge, river, or channel, making it less useful or entirely unusable for the public.

3. Intent or Knowledge:

   • The offense must be committed intentionally or with knowledge that it will likely harm the public or disrupt normal functioning.

Punishment

Imprisonment:

• The punishment includes imprisonment for a term of up to 5 years.

Fine:

• The offender may also be liable to pay a fine, or

Both:

• The court may impose both imprisonment and a fine, depending on the severity of the damage caused.