Section 55 deals with the punishment for those who abet (encourage, assist, or plan) the commission of offences so serious that they are punishable with death or life imprisonment. Even if the offence is not completed, the abettor still faces strict legal consequences.
Key Provisions:
- General Rule:
If an offence punishable by death or life imprisonment is abetted, but not actually committed, and no specific punishment is provided elsewhere, the abettor is punishable with:- Imprisonment of either description (simple or rigorous) for up to seven years, and
- Fine.
- If Hurt is Caused:
If any act done due to the abetment causes hurt to a person:- The abettor can be punished with imprisonment (simple or rigorous) for up to fourteen years, and
- Fine.
How It Protects:
- Ensures that individuals planning or provoking deadly crimes are punished even if the crime is not completed.
- Increases accountability by imposing harsher punishment if physical harm is caused.
- Deters people from encouraging heinous crimes like murder or life-endangering actions.
Example:
- A instigates B to murder Z.
- If Z is not murdered: A can still be imprisoned for up to 7 years and fined.
- If Z suffers hurt because of this abetment: A can be imprisoned for up to 14 years and fined.