CrPC Section 84
Detailed Explanation of CrPC Section 84
Section 84 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC), 1973 defines the concept of “Good Faith” and its importance as a defense in criminal law. It explains when a person who commits an act under a mistaken belief is not criminally liable because the act was done in good faith.
Text of Section 84 (Simplified Summary):
"Nothing is an offense which is done by a person who, at the time of doing it, is by reason of unsoundness of mind incapable of knowing the nature of the act or that he is doing what is either wrong or contrary to law."
(Note: The exact text of Section 84 is sometimes associated with the defense of insanity, but the CrPC itself refers to the broader principle of acts done in good faith and the legal protection given to such acts.)
Explanation:
What Does “Good Faith” Mean?
Good faith means performing an act with honest intention and without any intention to cause harm or break the law.
The act may be done believing it to be lawful or necessary, even if it turns out to be otherwise.
Protection Under Section 84:
Section 84 protects individuals who commit an act:
Believing on reasonable grounds that it is lawful.
Acting without intention to commit an offense.
Such persons are not held criminally liable for their actions.
Relation to Insanity Defense:
Section 84 is closely linked with the defense of insanity under Indian Penal Code (IPC) Section 84.
If a person is incapable of understanding the nature of the act due to unsoundness of mind, he is considered to be acting in good faith under the law.
Such persons are exempt from criminal liability.
Examples of Good Faith Acts:
A doctor administering treatment believing it to be necessary, even if it unintentionally causes harm.
A person entering someone’s property mistakenly believing it to be their own.
Legal Significance:
The section encourages fairness in criminal law by recognizing honest mistakes and mental incapacity.
It prevents punishing individuals who lack the mens rea (guilty mind) necessary for an offense.
Protects individuals acting under honest mistakes or mental incapacity from criminal prosecution.
Distinction from Other Defenses:
Good faith is different from ignorance of law, which is generally not a defense.
It is based on a genuine, reasonable belief or mental incapacity, not mere negligence or carelessness.
Practical Application:
Courts consider Section 84 when evaluating cases involving mental illness or honest mistakes.
It forms part of the basis for acquittals or reduced culpability in appropriate cases.
Summary:
Section 84 CrPC addresses acts done in good faith and provides protection from criminal liability when the act is done honestly without knowledge that it is wrong or unlawful.
It is closely associated with the defense of insanity or unsoundness of mind.
Protects those who lack intent or understanding from being punished unjustly.
Encourages fairness by recognizing mental incapacity and honest mistakes in criminal law.
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