Code :Section 118 BNS
(1) Whoever, except in the case provided for by sub-section (1) of section 122,
voluntarily causes hurt by means of any instrument for shooting, stabbing or cutting, or any
instrument which, used as a weapon of offence, is likely to cause death, or by means of fire
or any heated substance, or by means of any poison or any corrosive substance, or by
means of any explosive substance, or by means of any substance which it is deleterious to
the human body to inhale, to swallow, or to receive into the blood, or by means of any animal,
shall be punished with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to
three years, or with fine which may extend to twenty thousand rupees, or with both.
(2) Whoever, except in the case provided for by sub-section (2) of section 122, voluntarily
causes grievous hurt by any means referred to in sub–section (1), shall be punished with
imprisonment for life, or with imprisonment of either description for a term which shall not be
less than one year but which may extend to ten years, and shall also be liable to fine.
Explanation of Section 118 BNS
Section 118 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) punishes individuals who voluntarily cause hurt or grievous hurt using dangerous weapons or means.
Key Elements of the Offense
✅ Use of a dangerous weapon or method
✅ Injury caused must be hurt or grievous hurt
✅ Punishment is severe if grievous hurt is caused
What Constitutes “Dangerous Weapons or Means”?
🔹 Weapons – Knives, guns, swords, or sharp objects
🔹 Fire or Explosives – Burning, bombs, or fireworks
🔹 Poison or Corrosive Substances – Acid attacks, poisoning
🔹 Toxic Substances – Harmful gases, hazardous chemicals
🔹 Animals – Using dogs, snakes, or trained animals to attack
Illustrations (Examples)
Example 1: Knife Attack (Hurt)
A stabs B’s arm with a knife, causing a deep wound but no lasting damage.
✅ Liable under Section 118(1) BNS → Up to 3 years imprisonment or ₹20,000 fine.
Example 2: Acid Attack (Grievous Hurt)
C throws acid on D’s face, causing permanent scars and blindness in one eye.
✅ Liable under Section 118(2) BNS → Life imprisonment or 1-10 years jail + fine.
Example 3: Poisoning Attempt
E secretly mixes poison in F’s food, making F sick but not causing lasting harm.
✅ Liable under Section 118(1) BNS → Up to 3 years imprisonment or fine.
Example 4: Animal Attack
G commands his trained dog to bite H, causing severe injuries and fractures.
✅ Liable under Section 118(2) BNS → Up to life imprisonment or 1-10 years jail + fine.
Common Questions & Answers
1. What is considered a “dangerous weapon or means” under this law?
🔹 Anything capable of causing serious injury or death, including:
✅ Weapons (knives, guns, swords)
✅ Explosives & fire
✅ Acid & poison
✅ Trained animals
2. What if the accused didn’t intend to cause grievous hurt?
🔹 If grievous hurt occurs, intent doesn’t matter—the accused is still punished under Section 118(2) BNS.
3. Does this section cover acid attacks?
🔹 Yes. Acid is a corrosive substance under Section 118(2) BNS, leading to strict punishment.
4. Can throwing hot oil on someone be punished under Section 118 BNS?
🔹 Yes, hot oil is a heated substance, making it a dangerous means under this section.
5. How is Section 118 different from Section 117 BNS?
🔹 Section 117 BNS covers grievous hurt without dangerous weapons.
🔹 Section 118 BNS applies only when dangerous weapons or substances are used.
Conclusion
Section 118 BNS ensures strict punishment for those using dangerous weapons or means to harm others. If grievous hurt is caused, the offender can face up to life imprisonment.
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