Murder

Murder Under Indian Law (Section 300 & 302 IPC)

Murder is the unlawful killing of a person with intent, defined under Section 300 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC). The punishment for murder is prescribed under Section 302 IPC.

Definition of Murder (Section 300 IPC)

A person commits murder if they cause death:

1. With intent to kill (premeditation).
2. With knowledge that the act will likely cause death.
3. By an act so dangerous that death is almost certain.

Punishment for Murder (Section 302 IPC)

• Death penalty or life imprisonment, and
• Fine (as decided by the court).

Exceptions: Culpable Homicide Not Amounting to Murder (Section 304 IPC)

Murder is reduced to culpable homicide if:

• The act was committed in grave provocation.
• It happened in a sudden fight without premeditation.
• The offender exceeded self-defense unintentionally.