Introduction of Section 162 BNS
BNS Section 162 addresses the offense of abetting an assault by an officer, soldier, sailor, or airman of the Indian Army, Navy, or Air Force on a superior officer while the superior officer is performing official duties. If this abetment leads to an actual assault, the abettor can face imprisonment for up to seven years along with a fine.
The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) Section 162 replaces the old Indian Penal Code (IPC) Section 134.
What is BNS Section 162 ?
BNS Section 162 deals with individuals who assist, encourage, or support an assault on a superior officer in the Army, Navy, or Air Force of India while the officer is carrying out their official duties. If an assault happens because of this assistance or encouragement, the person who abetted the assault can be severely punished.
Under Section 162 of the bns act 2023
“Whoever abets an assault by an officer, soldier, sailor, or airman of the Army, Navy, or Air Force of India on a superior officer while such superior officer is in the execution of his office, shall, if such assault is committed in consequence of that abetment, be punished with imprisonment for a term which may extend to seven years and shall also be liable to fine.”
Explanation of BNS Section 162
- What it means
- Section 162 punishes people who abet (help, encourage, or instigate) military personnel to assault their superior officer.
- It applies only if the assault actually takes place due to such abetment.
- Who is covered
- Offenders may be civilians or other soldiers, sailors, or airmen.
- Victims must be superior officers carrying out official duties.
- Key conditions
- Abetment + Actual Assault = Punishment.
- Mere words or planning are not enough unless they directly cause the assault.
- Nature of offense
- Cognizable → Police can arrest without a warrant.
- Non-bailable → Bail is not a matter of right.
- Non-compoundable → Cannot be settled outside court.
- Trial Court → Magistrate of the First Class.
Why BNS Section 162 is Important
- Maintains discipline and respect for hierarchy within the armed forces.
- Prevents disruption of military command structures.
- Protects national security by punishing those who encourage violence within the forces.
- Acts as a deterrent against group disobedience or rebellion.
Examples of Section 162 BNS
- Example 1: A civilian encourages a group of soldiers to attack their superior officer. The soldiers act on this and commit the assault. The civilian is guilty under Section 162.
- Example 2: A sailor gives weapons to junior officers and provokes them to assault a commander. Since the assault happens, the sailor is liable under this section.
Punishment under BNS 162
- Imprisonment: Up to 7 years.
- Fine: Additional fine as decided by the court.
- Both penalties can apply together.
Section 162 BNS Overview
BNS Section 162 states that anyone who helps or encourages an officer, soldier, sailor, or airman in the Army, Navy, or Air Force to assault a superior officer while the superior is performing their duties will be punished if the assault occurs as a result of this help or encouragement. The punishment can be up to seven years of imprisonment and a fine.
BNS Section 162 :10 Key Points
Scope of Abetment Offense:
- What It Covers: This section deals with individuals who aid, support, or encourage an assault on a superior officer within the Indian Army, Navy, or Air Force while the officer is performing their official duties. The abetment can include actions like planning, helping, or provoking the assault.
Clarification of Abetment:
- Definition of Abetment: Abetment involves any form of support or encouragement that leads to the actual assault. This could be direct actions, such as providing weapons or resources, or indirect actions, like instigating or advising the assault.
Severity of Punishment:
- Penalties: If an assault occurs as a result of the abetment, the abettor faces serious consequences. The punishment can include imprisonment for up to seven years. The court may also impose a fine, which is intended to penalize the offender financially in addition to the prison sentence.
Legal Classification and Arrest:
- Cognizable Offense: The offense is classified as cognizable, meaning the police have the authority to arrest the accused without a warrant. This classification ensures that law enforcement can respond quickly to serious offenses and take necessary actions without delays.
Non-Compoundable Nature:
- Inability to Withdraw Charges: The offense is non-compoundable, meaning that the victim cannot drop the charges or settle the matter outside of court. This ensures that the legal process fully addresses the crime and upholds justice.
Trial Process:
- Court Handling: Cases under Section 162 are tried by a Magistrate of the first class. This ensures that the case is handled by a judicial officer with the appropriate authority to deal with serious offenses.
Impact on Military Discipline:
- Maintaining Order: The section underscores the importance of maintaining discipline and order within the armed forces. Abetment of an assault on a superior officer is seen as a serious threat to military discipline and operational effectiveness.
Legal Precedents:
- Case Law Influence: Legal decisions in previous cases under this section can influence how new cases are handled. The judiciary’s interpretation of abetment and its consequences helps shape future enforcement and judicial decisions.
Rights of the Accused:
- Legal Protections: Despite the seriousness of the offense, the accused retains certain rights throughout the legal process. These include the right to a fair trial, legal representation, and to be heard in their defense.
Preventive Measures:
- Deterrence: The severe penalties and strict legal framework are designed to deter individuals from engaging in or supporting assaults on superior officers. This helps ensure that military personnel act within the bounds of law and maintain respect for hierarchy and authority.
Example:
Scenario: Aman, a junior officer in the Air Force, is unhappy with his commanding officer. He secretly encourages other junior officers to join him in undermining their commanding officer’s authority by ignoring orders and acting disrespectfully during meetings.
Result: Because Aman’s actions led to the commanding officer being disrespected and undermined, Aman has abetted the misconduct. Under Section 162, Aman could face severe penalties for his role in encouraging the disrespectful behavior towards his superior officer.
BNS 162 Punishment
Imprisonment: The main punishment is imprisonment for up to seven years. This means that if convicted, the person can be sentenced to spend up to seven years in prison.
Fine: In addition to imprisonment, the person convicted may also be fined. The amount of the fine is determined by the court based on the severity of the offense.
BNS 162 bailable or not ?
BNS Section 162 is non-bailable. This means that if someone is accused under this section, they cannot be granted bail easily and must remain in custody until the court decides otherwise.
Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita Section 162
| Section | What it Means | Punishment | Bail | Cognizable? | Trial By |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BNS Section 162 | BNS Section 162 deals with the public nuisance process — empowering a Magistrate to order the removal of unlawful obstructions or nuisances from public places, rivers, or channels used by the public. | Not directly punitive; focuses on preventive and remedial actions. Disobedience of such orders can lead to separate penal action. | Not Applicable (Preventive measure) | Not Cognizable (Magistrate-driven process) | Executive Magistrate |
| IPC Section 133 (Old) | The corresponding section under IPC empowered a Magistrate to remove public nuisances or obstructions affecting public rights over places, waterways, or passages. | Similar in nature — preventive, not punitive; non-compliance invited legal action under other IPC provisions. | Not Applicable | Not Cognizable | Executive Magistrate |
BNS Section 162 FAQs
What does BNS Section 162 cover?
BNS Section 162 covers the offense of abetting an assault by an officer, soldier, sailor, or airman on a superior officer while the superior officer is executing official duties.
What constitutes abetment under BNS Section 162?
Abetment in this context includes encouraging, assisting, or supporting the assault on a superior officer.
What are the potential consequences if someone is found guilty under BNS Section 162?
If found guilty, the person abetting the assault can be sentenced to imprisonment for up to seven years and may also be fined.
Is BNS Section 162 a non-bailable offense?
Yes, BNS Section 162 is classified as a non-bailable offense, which means that bail is not easily granted to the accused.
Who can investigate cases under BNS Section 162?
Cases under BNS Section 162 are investigated by the police, and they have the authority to arrest without a warrant due to its cognizable nature.
Where are cases under BNS Section 162 tried?
Cases under BNS Section 162 are triable in the court of a Magistrate of the first class, ensuring judicial oversight and adherence to legal procedures.
Conclusion
Section 162 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita ensures strict accountability for those who provoke or assist assaults on superior officers within the armed forces. Unlike Section 161, which covers abetment even without an actual assault, Section 162 applies only when the assault happens due to abetment. By prescribing up to seven years’ imprisonment and fines, the law protects discipline, loyalty, and hierarchy — essential pillars of India’s defense system.
Need Legal Support?
If you’re facing court proceedings, marriage-related issues, or any legal matter, our team at Marriage Solution – Lawyer Help is ready to guide you. Just complete our easy online enquiry form, and we’ll connect you with the right legal assistance tailored to your needs..
Finished with BNS 162 ? Continue exploring the next provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023. Each section includes explanations, examples, and plain-language breakdowns for easy understanding.
- 163 BNS : Abetment of desertion of soldier, sailor or airman.
- https://marriagesolution.in/bns_section/163-bns/
- 164 BNS : Harbouring deserter.
- https://marriagesolution.in/bns_section/164-bns/
- 165 BNS : Deserter concealed on board merchant vessel through negligence of master.
- https://marriagesolution.in/bns_section/165-bns/
- 166 BNS : Abetment of act of insubordination by soldier, sailor or airman.
- https://marriagesolution.in/bns_section/166-bns/
- 167 BNS : Persons subject to certain Acts.
- https://marriagesolution.in/bns_section/167-bns/
Full IPC Section List: https://marriagesolution.in/ipc-section-list
All Indian Law & Blogs: https://marriagesolution.in/indian-law/
Full BNSS Section List: https://marriagesolution.in/bnss_section-list