Introduction of IPC Section 491
This law exists to ensure that people who need assistance, such as children, the sick, or those with mental disabilities, receive the care they require from the individuals who have committed to providing it. It holds people accountable for their promises to care for the vulnerable.
What is IPC Section 491 ?
If you commit to caring for someone who can’t care for themselves due to being young, sick, or mentally challenged, you must fulfill that commitment. Failure to do so, despite knowing your responsibility, can lead to legal trouble.

IPC Section 491 Overview
If you promise to look after someone who can’t do it alone because they’re young, sick, or mentally weak, you have to do it. If you don’t, knowing you should, you might go to jail for up to three months or pay a fine of up to two hundred rupees, or both. This law makes sure people who need help get it from those who promised to help.
Key Points About IPC 491
- Legal Responsibility: If you have a lawful agreement to take care of someone who can’t care for themselves due to age, mental incapacity, illness, or physical weakness, you must fulfill that obligation.
- Failure to Provide Care: If you knowingly fail to fulfill your duty to care for the helpless person as agreed upon, you’re breaking the law.
- Voluntary Omission: Your failure to provide care must be voluntary, meaning you deliberately chose not to fulfill your obligation.
- Punishment Options: If found guilty, you could face imprisonment for up to three months, or a fine that could extend to two hundred rupees, or both.
- Protecting the Vulnerable: This law aims to protect those who can’t protect themselves, ensuring they receive the care they need from those who have promised to provide it.
- Legal Accountability: By holding individuals accountable for their contractual obligations to care for the helpless, this law ensures the welfare and safety of vulnerable individuals are prioritized.
IPC 491 Punishment
The punishment for offenses under IPC 491 includes:
- Imprisonment for up to three month
- A fine
- Both imprisonment and a fine, depending on the severity of the offense

491 IPC bailable or non bailable ?
Offenses under IPC 491 are generally bailable. This means that individuals accused of wrongful confinement can be released on bail while awaiting trial.
Section 491 IPC in short information
Aspect | Description |
---|---|
Definition | Breach of contract to attend on and supply wants of helpless person |
Offence | Failing to fulfill a lawful contract to care for someone incapable of providing for their own needs |
Punishment | Imprisonment for up to three months, or a fine of up to two hundred rupees, or both |
Bailable | Yes |
IPC 491 FAQs
What constitutes a breach of contract under IPC 491?
A breach of contract occurs when someone fails to fulfill their lawful obligation to care for a helpless person as promised.
Who is considered a “helpless person” under IPC 491?
A helpless person is someone who, due to reasons like youth, unsoundness of mind, disease, or bodily weakness, is unable to provide for their own safety or meet their own needs.
What are the potential consequences for breaching a contract under IPC 491?
Breaching a contract under IPC 491 can lead to imprisonment for up to three months, a fine of up to two hundred rupees, or both.
Is IPC 491 a bailable offense?
Yes, IPC 491 is generally considered a bailable offense, meaning the accused can seek bail while awaiting trial.
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