IPC Section 432
IPC Section 432 – Mischief by killing or maiming cattle, etc., with intent to cause damage
What it means
Section 432 deals with acts of mischief where someone destroys, kills, or damages cattle or other property with the intent to cause damage or harm.
It is part of the IPC’s provisions on mischief and property damage.
Key Points
Nature of Offence
It is a cognizable offence.
The key element is intent to cause damage or harm to property, especially cattle (like cows, oxen, buffaloes) or property of significant value.
Mischief Involved
Any act that destroys, kills, maims, or damages property or cattle can be covered.
It must be intentional, not accidental.
Property of Importance
Section 432 often refers to agricultural or valuable property, especially cattle, which are economically important in rural India.
Damage to such property can have serious economic consequences.
Punishment
The punishment for Section 432 is:
**Imprisonment for up to seven years, and
Fine
Illustrations / Examples
Example 1 – A kills B’s cow out of anger or revenge. This falls under Section 432.
Example 2 – A damages B’s bullock cart deliberately to cause economic loss. This is punishable under Section 432.
Example 3 – A intentionally harms B’s ox to stop him from farming. This is also covered.
Objective of Section 432
To protect property and livestock from intentional damage.
To safeguard the economic and livelihood interests of individuals, particularly in rural areas.
It acts as a deterrent against malicious acts that may affect people’s livelihoods.
✅ In summary:
Section 432 IPC punishes anyone who intentionally kills, maims, or damages cattle or other valuable property with the intent to cause harm. The punishment can be imprisonment for up to seven years and a fine. This law protects property, especially economically important assets like livestock.
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