Section 4 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) defines the types of punishments that offenders may face under this law. These punishments vary based on the severity of the crime and ensure justice and accountability.
Types of Punishments:
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Death Penalty - The harshest punishment, reserved for the most serious crimes, such as aggravated murder and terrorism-related offenses.
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Imprisonment for Life - The offender is sentenced to life in prison, which may or may not allow for parole, depending on the offense.
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Imprisonment - This is of two types:
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Rigorous Imprisonment - Includes hard labor, such as work in prison industries.
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Simple Imprisonment - No hard labor is required; applicable for less severe offenses.
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Forfeiture of Property - The offender’s property may be seized if it was acquired through criminal means or used for committing an offense.
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Fine - A monetary penalty imposed on the offender, either as the sole punishment or in addition to imprisonment.
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Community Service - The offender is required to perform community work instead of or in addition to other punishments, often used for minor offenses.
How It Protects:
This section ensures a fair punishment system where penalties are proportionate to the severity of the crime. It also introduces community service as an alternative punishment, promoting restorative justice.
Example:
Murder → Death penalty or life imprisonment.
Fraud → Fine and imprisonment.
Minor vandalism → Community service.
