Skip to main content

MarriageSolution.in: Reliable Legal Partner


Introduction of 87 IPC

Sometimes people commit illegal acts while not being in a proper state of mind to judge right from wrong. IPC Section 87 deals with such situations and provides guidelines on how to handle offenses committed by individuals who lack the capacity for sound judgment.



87  IPC explains that acts done by consent, not intended to cause death or grievous hurt, are not offenses, promoting legal protection for consensual acts.
87 IPC states that acts done by consent, not intended to cause death or grievous hurt, are not offenses.

What is Section 87 IPC ?

IPC 87 states that nothing which is done by a person who is incapable of judging the nature and consequences of their conduct due to a reason other than intoxication, is an offense.


Section 87 Of IPC Overview

IPC 87 states that nothing which is done by a person who is incapable of judging the nature and consequences of their conduct due to a reason other than intoxication, is an offense.

Key-Points

Lack of Judgment Defense: This law allows people who committed an offense while lacking the capacity for sound judgment to use this as a potential defense against criminal charges.

Incapability to Judge Conduct: It applies if the person was incapable of understanding the nature and consequences of their actions at the time of the offense.

Reasons Other than Intoxication: The incapability to judge must be due to reasons other than intoxication, which is covered under a separate section (IPC 85).

Case-by-Case Evaluation: Each case is individually evaluated based on evidence regarding the person’s mental state and capacity for judgment.

Fairness and Proportionality: The aim is to ensure fair treatment for individuals who lack the mental capacity to fully comprehend their actions and its implications.

Strict Legal Requirements: Specific legal criteria must be strictly met for this defense to apply, as it involves overriding criminal liability.


IPC Section 87 Punishment

There is no direct punishment or fine prescribed under IPC 87 itself. It serves as a potential legal defense against criminal liability if the criteria are fulfilled.


IPC 87 bailable or not ?

The bailability of offenses under IPC Section 87 depends on the nature of the act:

  • Non-Bailable: If the act resulted in death or grievous hurt with intent, it will generally be non-bailable.
  • Bailable: If the harm caused was minor and with valid consent, it is generally bailable.

IPC Section 87 FAQs

Q 1: What kind of activities does Section 87 typically cover?

Lawful games and sports, such as boxing or wrestling matches, where participants consent to some risk of minor injury.

Q 2: Who can validly give consent under Section 87?

Only a person above eighteen years of age can give the consent contemplated under this section.

Q 3: Does this section protect acts likely to cause death?

No, it only protects acts that were neither intended nor known to be likely to cause death or grievous hurt.

Q 4: What happens if the harm caused is more serious than expected?

If death or grievous hurt was in fact likely and foreseeable, this protection will not apply, and other sections like 88 may be considered instead.


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 IPC 87 ? Continue exploring the next provisions of the Indian Penal Code. Each section includes explanations, examples, and plain-language breakdowns for easy understanding.

IPC 88 : Act Not Intended to Cause Death, Done by Consent in Good Faith for the Person’s Benefit .

IPC Section 89 : Act Done in Good Faith for Benefit of a Child or Insane Person, by or With Consent of Guardian .


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

Full BNS Section List: https://marriagesolution.in/bharatiya-nyaya-sanhi


Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *