Introduction
IPC 379 deals with theft, which involves dishonestly taking someone’s movable property without their permission with the intention of never returning it. Offenders can face up to three years in prison and/or a fine.
What is IPC 379 ?
IPC 379 says taking someone’s movable stuff (phone, jewelry, car) dishonestly (meaning to steal) without permission and wanting to keep it forever is a crime. Basically, stealing something and never giving it back.

Definition of IPC 379
Theft (IPC 379) is simply taking someone’s movable stuff (jewelry, phone, car) dishonestly, without their permission, and wanting to keep it forever. Think: secretly taking something that isn’t yours and never giving it back.
Section 379 IPC Explanation
What is Theft (Dishonest Taking): In IPC 379, theft means taking something that belongs to someone else without asking and with no plans to return it. This could be hiding what you’re doing, pretending to be someone else to get it, or borrowing from a friend without intending to give it back
Movable Property Only: The stolen item must be something you can physically move from place to place. This includes things like jewelry, electronics, cash, vehicles, etc. Land or buildings are considered immovable property and not covered by IPC 379.
Movable Property Only: IPC 379 covers theft of things you can carry around, like jewelry, money, or electronics. It doesn’t apply to land or buildings, which are not movable.
Intention to Deprive Permanently: Intention to Keep Forever: In IPC 379, theft happens when someone wants to keep what they’ve taken and never give it back. Even if you find something that isn’t yours and decide to keep it instead of trying to return it, that could also be theft.
Examples of Theft: Here are some common examples of theft under IPC 379:
- Taking someone’s wallet from their pocket without them knowing.
- Breaking into a house or store to steal money or valuable items.
- Driving off in a car without permission, with no intention of returning it.
- Keeping a phone you found instead of trying to give it back to the owner.
Different from Robbery: IIt’s important to understand the difference between theft and robbery. Theft, as described in IPC 379, doesn’t involve violence or the threat of violence. It’s about dishonestly taking someone’s property without their permission. On the other hand, robbery, covered under IPC 390, includes using force or the threat of force to steal property from someone.
Punishment for Theft: IPC 379 carries a penalty for those convicted of theft. This can include:
- Imprisonment: Up to three years in jail, but the sentence can vary depending on the severity of the offense (e.g., value of stolen property).
- Fine: The court can also impose a significant financial penalty.
Importance of Reporting Theft: If you think someone is stealing or if you’ve been a victim of theft, it’s crucial to report it to the authorities. This ensures that the person responsible faces consequences and helps prevent others from becoming victims of similar crimes.
IPC 379 Punishment
- Imprisonment: If convicted under IPC 379, the offender may face imprisonment for a period of up to three years. The duration of imprisonment depends on the severity of the offense and other factors considered by the court.
- Fine: In addition to imprisonment, the court may impose a monetary penalty on the convicted individual. The amount of the fine can vary depending on the specifics of the case and the discretion of the court.
- Combined Punishment: It’s important to note that the court has the authority to sentence the offender to both imprisonment and a fine, depending on the circumstances of the case and the severity of the theft.

Offense | Definition | Punishment | Bailable |
---|---|---|---|
Theft | Dishonestly taking someone’s movable property without permission and with the intent of permanent deprivation. | Up to 3 years in prison and/or a fine. | Yes |
379 IPC bailable or not
Stealing something (IPC 379) is usually not bailable in India. This means you likely won’t be released before trial because the theft might be serious, you might flee, or tamper with evidence. However, there could be rare exceptions like a weak case against you or if it’s your first offense. Always consult a lawyer for specific legal advice.
IPC 379 FAQs
What is IPC 379?
IPC 379 defines theft in India. It applies when someone dishonestly takes someone else’s movable property (something you can physically move) from their possession, without their consent, with the intention of permanently depriving them of it.
What’s considered “movable property” under IPC 379?
Movable property includes things like jewelry, electronics, cash, vehicles, etc. Land or buildings are not considered movable property.
What are some examples of theft under IPC 379?
Examples include picking someone’s pocket, breaking into a shop to steal valuables, or taking a car for a joyride without the owner’s permission and intending to keep it.
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