Section 62 deals with attempts to commit offences punishable with life imprisonment or other forms of imprisonment. Even if the actual crime is not completed, this section ensures that any act done in furtherance of the crime attracts punishment, thereby deterring criminal attempts.
Key Provisions:
- This section applies to:
- Any person who attempts to commit an offence punishable with life imprisonment or any other imprisonment, or
- Attempts to cause such an offence to be committed, and
- Does any act in that direction.
- If no specific punishment for the attempt is given elsewhere in the Sanhita:➤ The person shall be punished with:
- Imprisonment (any description) for up to one-half of the imprisonment for life, or
- Up to one-half of the longest term of imprisonment provided for that offence, or
- Fine, or
- Both.
How It Protects:
- Prevents people from evading punishment by claiming the crime was incomplete.
- Recognizes that actions toward committing a crime can be nearly as dangerous as the act itself.
- Creates legal consequences even for failed or interrupted criminal acts.
Examples:
- (a) A tries to steal jewels by breaking open a box. The box is empty.
➤ Still punishable under this section, as the act of breaking the box shows intent. - (b) A tries to pick Z’s pocket by putting his hand inside.
Z’s pocket is empty, but A is still guilty — the attempt was real.