Section 306 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) deals with theft committed by a clerk or servant of property belonging to their employer or property in their custody due to their role. This section specifically addresses the abuse of trust in employer-employee relationships and provides strict provisions to prevent such misconduct.
Punishment:
Imprisonment of either description for up to 7 years, and liability to pay a fine. These penalties aim to deter employees from misusing their position of trust.
How It Protects:
This section prevents breaches of trust in workplaces by penalizing dishonest employees. It also safeguards employers’ property and trust within professional relationships, ensuring fairness and accountability in employment contexts.
Example:
If a clerk steals cash from the office cashbox, or a servant takes jewelry or valuables from their employer’s home, they can be prosecuted under this section. Similarly, an employee who removes goods from a warehouse without permission also commits an offense under Section 306.
