IPC Section 7 – Sense of Expression (Indian Penal Code)
IPC Section 7 explains the meaning of act and omission under the Indian Penal Code and how offences can be committed by actions or illegal omissions.
What is IPC Section 7?
IPC Section 7 explains how certain words and expressions should be understood when they are used in the Indian Penal Code.
It mainly talks about the meaning of the words “act” and “omission”.
In simple words, IPC Section 7 tells us that a crime can happen by doing something or by not doing something when there is a legal duty.
Simple Meaning of IPC Section 7
IPC Section 7 says:
-
The word “act” includes a series of acts
-
The word “omission” includes illegal omissions
This means a person can commit an offence:
-
By performing an act, or
-
By failing to act when the law requires action
Important Terms Explained
| Term | Simple Meaning |
|---|---|
| Act | Doing something |
| Series of Acts | More than one action together |
| Omission | Not doing something |
| Illegal Omission | Not doing a legal duty |
What Is an “Act” Under IPC Section 7?
An act means doing something.
It can be:
-
One single action, or
-
A group of actions done together
Example:
If a person plans and commits theft by breaking a lock, entering a house, and stealing items, all these together are treated as one act.
What Is an “Omission” Under IPC Section 7?
An omission means not doing something.
But not every omission is a crime.
Only an illegal omission is punishable.
What Is an Illegal Omission?
An illegal omission happens when:
-
A person has a legal duty to act
-
The person fails to perform that duty
Example 1: Illegal Omission
A police officer sees a serious crime happening and does nothing, even though he is legally required to act.
This failure is an illegal omission under IPC Section 7.
Example 2: Not an Illegal Omission
A normal person sees someone drowning but does not help.
If there is no legal duty, this may be morally wrong but not a crime under IPC.
Why IPC Section 7 Is Important
-
It explains how actions and inactions can both be crimes
-
It helps courts understand responsibility
-
It prevents people from escaping punishment by staying inactive
-
It gives clear meaning to common legal words
Key Points of IPC Section 7
| Point | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Crime can be by action | Doing something illegal |
| Crime can be by omission | Not doing legal duty |
| Act includes many acts | Series of actions treated as one |
| Only illegal omissions matter | Legal duty is required |
Summary
-
IPC Section 7 explains the meaning of act and omission
-
An offence can be committed by doing or not doing something
-
Only illegal omissions are punishable
-
Legal duty is necessary for omission to be a crime
What's Your Reaction?
