Culpable homicide becomes murder when the act causing death is done with a clear intention to kill, or to cause an injury the accused knew was likely to cause death, or was so imminently dangerous that it must, in all probability, cause death — without any legally recognised exception applying.
- Punishable with death or life imprisonment, plus a fine.
The most serious homicide charge — what separates it from lesser charges is the degree of intention and dangerousness involved, which is a matter courts scrutinise closely.
Keep exploring
Culpable Homicide
If someone dies because of another person's act, the exact charge (culpable homicide vs. murder) depends heavily on intent and circumstance — it isn't automatic.
Mob Lynching
If a death results from a group attack targeting someone over their identity, this section — not just ordinary murder or rioting charges — is what should be invoked.
Attempt to Murder
You don't need someone to actually die for a murder-level charge to apply — a genuine, dangerous attempt is itself a serious standalone offence.
This is a plain-English summary, not verbatim statutory text. Adhikar is an independent citizen-awareness platform, not a Government of India website. Always verify against the bare Act (legislative.gov.in) or a qualified advocate before relying on this for an actual legal situation.