Section 97 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023
📘 Section 97 – General Exception: Act Done in Good Faith for Public Good
🔹 Overview:
Section 97 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 provides a general exception where an act, which would otherwise be an offence, is not considered an offence if it is done in good faith for the public good.
🔍 Detailed Explanation:
✅ Core Idea:
If a person commits an act that breaks the law, but does so with honest intention (good faith) and for the benefit of the public, such an act may be excused and not treated as a criminal offence.
🔹 Key Elements:
Good Faith:
The person must genuinely believe their action is necessary or beneficial.
There should be no malice or intention to cause harm.
For Public Good:
The act should aim to protect or promote public interest, safety, or welfare.
Examples could include actions taken during emergencies or public service.
Act Otherwise Illegal:
The act might technically violate some law but is excused under this section due to the reasons above.
🧠 Examples:
A doctor performing an emergency surgery without patient consent to save life.
A person breaking traffic rules to rush someone to the hospital in a life-threatening situation.
Authorities taking necessary steps during a natural disaster to maintain public safety.
📌 Significance:
Section 97 safeguards good Samaritans and those who act in emergencies or for public welfare.
It encourages socially responsible actions without fear of legal consequences.
This section is important for balancing strict enforcement of laws with practical humanitarian considerations.
🔚 Summary:
Section 97 of the BNS, 2023 provides an exception to criminal liability for acts done in good faith and for the public good.
It promotes socially beneficial actions and prevents misuse of law to penalize well-intentioned conduct.
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