Stages of Crime in IPC
Stages of Crime under the Indian Penal Code (IPC)
1. Introduction
A crime is a wrongful act punishable by law. But before a crime is completed, it usually goes through different stages. Understanding these stages is crucial in criminal law as it affects liability, punishments, and the prosecution process.
The IPC and the Indian Criminal Law recognize mainly three stages of crime:
2. The Three Stages of Crime
A. Preparation
This is the initial stage where the offender plans or prepares to commit a crime.
It involves arranging resources, plotting, or making tools for the offence.
No direct harm or attempt to commit the crime is made yet.
Generally, preparation alone is not punishable under IPC, except in some special laws or cases (like possession of arms or preparation for war against the state).
B. Attempt
Attempt means the direct movement towards the commission of a crime after preparation.
The offender must have taken some steps beyond mere preparation that demonstrate an intention to commit the crime.
The crime is not completed, but there was an unsuccessful effort to commit it.
Attempt is punishable under Section 511 IPC (attempt to commit an offence punishable with imprisonment for life or other imprisonment).
Example: Trying to shoot someone but missing the target.
C. Commission (Completion)
This is the final stage, where the crime is fully executed or completed.
The offender has carried out all acts necessary for the offence, resulting in the intended harm or prohibited consequence.
The offender is fully liable and punishable under the relevant IPC sections.
Example: Actually causing hurt or theft.
3. Summary of Stages
| Stage | Definition | Punishable? | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| Preparation | Planning and arranging means for crime | Generally No | Buying poison to commit murder |
| Attempt | Direct action towards committing crime | Yes, under Section 511 | Trying to shoot but failing to kill |
| Commission | Complete execution of the crime | Yes | Successfully committing theft or murder |
4. Important Legal Provisions
Section 511 IPC: Punishment for attempting to commit an offence punishable with imprisonment for life or other imprisonment.
Many specific offences also have their own provisions about attempt, like attempt to murder (Section 307 IPC).
5. Important Case Laws
Case 1: State of Maharashtra v. Mayer Hans George (1965 AIR 722)
Held that an attempt involves the last act to complete the crime.
Case 2: R. v. Eagleton (1855)
Attempt must go beyond preparation and be a direct movement to the commission.
Case 3: Puran Singh v. State of Punjab (1953 AIR 300)
Clarified that preparation alone is insufficient; there must be a clear intention and overt act.
6. Additional Notes
Abandonment or withdrawal after attempt can sometimes be a defense if done voluntarily and completely.
Some crimes like conspiracy or abetment are punishable even in preparation stages.
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