Section 351 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) applies when a person threatens another person with harm to their body, reputation, property, or someone they care about, with the intent to cause fear or compel them to act against their will.
Criminal intimidation includes threats of death, serious harm, destruction of property, or imputing unchastity to a woman.
Explanation:
A threat to harm the reputation of a deceased person in whom the victim is interested is also considered criminal intimidation under this section.
Punishment:
General Criminal Intimidation: Imprisonment of up to two years, or fine, or both.
Threats of Death, Grievous Hurt, or Property Destruction by Fire: Imprisonment of up to seven years, along with a fine.
Anonymous Threats or Concealed Identity: Additional punishment of two years of imprisonment along with the primary punishment.
How It Protects:
This section ensures personal safety, protects reputation, and prevents coercive tactics.
It discourages acts of intimidation that can force individuals to act under duress or fear.
Example:
If a person threatens to burn someone’s house to stop them from pursuing a lawsuit, they are guilty of criminal intimidation.
Similarly, if someone sends an anonymous threat to cause harm, it is punishable under this law.
