Introduction
Taking a child under 10 to steal something (money, phone) is a terrible crime (IPC 369). The punishment reflects this seriousness, with a possible 7-year jail sentence and a possible fine to protect vulnerable children.
Definition of IPC 369
IPC Section 369 deals with “taking away a child under ten.” If someone takes a child under ten to steal from them, they can go to jail for up to seven years. They may also have to pay a fine. So, it’s against the law to take little kids to steal from them.
What is IPC 369 ?
IPC 369 deals with kidnapping a child under 10. It’s especially serious because the offender intends to steal something from the child, like money or a phone. The punishment is harsh, with up to 7 years in jail to deter harming vulnerable children.

IPC Section 369 Explanation
Stealing Innocence: A Look at IPC Section 369
Imagine someone taking a young child away from their family. Not just any child, but a child under 10 years old, who might be easily scared and confused. This is what IPC Section 369 aims to stop.
What does it mean?
This law deals specifically with kidnapping or taking away a child under 10 years old. It’s different from kidnapping in general (IPC 366 & 367) because it focuses on the vulnerability of young children.
Why is it a crime?
The key thing here is the dishonest intention. The person who takes the child wants to steal something from them, something they can carry with them. This could be:
- Money they might have in their pocket
- A piece of jewelry
- A phone or other electronic device
- Any other personal belonging the child has
The punishment:
Taking a child for this reason is a very serious crime. To discourage it, the punishment is:
- Up to seven years in jail: The exact sentence depends on the severity of the case. For example, if the child was unharmed and returned quickly, the sentence might be less severe than if the child was hurt or kept for a long time.
- Fine: The court can also make the offender pay a financial penalty.
Additional things to know:
- Getting bail is difficult: This offense is not bailable. This means the person accused of the crime can’t automatically get released on bail while waiting for their trial. The court decides on bail on a case-by-case basis.
- Police can investigate right away: This is a cognizable offense, allowing the police to investigate without needing a special permission from a court. This helps ensure a swift response to protect children.
Protecting our youngest:
IPC Section 369 is a law designed to keep our children safe. It shows that crimes against vulnerable young people are taken very seriously.
IPC 369 Punishment
- Up to 7 years in jail: This is the maximum sentence an offender can face. The exact length of imprisonment depends on the specific details of the case. Courts consider factors like:
- Harm caused to the child: Did the child suffer any physical or emotional harm during the kidnapping?
- How long the child was held: Was it a brief abduction or were they kept for a longer period?
- Value of the stolen property: How significant was the item stolen from the child?
- Fine: The court can also impose a financial penalty on the offender. The amount can vary depending on the offender’s financial situation and the severity of the crime.
Aspect | Description (Simple Words) |
---|---|
Offense | Kidnapping a Young Child |
Definition | Taking away a child under 10 years old without their permission to steal something from them. |
Different from | Regular kidnapping (focuses on stealing) |
Motive | Stealing something the child has (money, phone, etc.) |
Punishment | * Up to 7 years in jail (depending on how bad it was) * Possible fine |
Bailable | No (court decides on bail on a case-by-case basis) |

369 IPC bailable or not ?
IPC 369 is considered not bailable. This means the accused cannot automatically get released on bail while waiting for their trial. The court decides on bail on a case-by-case basis.
IPC 369 FAQs
What does IPC 369 deal with?
IPC 369 tackles a specific type of kidnapping. It focuses on situations where someone kidnaps a child under 10 years old with the intention of stealing something from them, like money, jewelry, or a phone.
What makes this crime different from regular kidnapping?
Regular kidnapping (IPC 366 & 367) might not have stealing as the main motive. IPC 369 focuses on the vulnerability of young children and the added seriousness of stealing from them.
What are the key points of IPC 369?
The child must be under 10 years old.
The child is taken away without their permission (kidnapped).
The kidnapper intends to steal something from the child.
Is getting bail easy under IPC 369?
No, getting bail for this crime is difficult. Since it’s considered a serious offense, the court decides on bail on a case-by-case basis.
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