IPC Section 280
IPC Section 280: Simple Theft of Property Exceeding Fifty Rupees
⚖️ Legal Text of Section 280:
Section 280:
Simple theft of property exceeding fifty rupees in value
Whoever commits theft of anything exceeding fifty rupees in value, shall be punished with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to three years, or with fine, or with both.
🧾 Explanation:
Theft is defined under Section 378 of the IPC, meaning the dishonest taking of someone else’s movable property without consent.
Section 280 deals with theft where the value of the stolen property exceeds ₹50.
The key difference here is the value of the stolen property:
If the value is less than or equal to ₹50, Section 379 applies (simple theft).
If the value is more than ₹50, Section 280 applies.
✅ Key Points:
Nature of Offense:
It is a cognizable, non-bailable, and non-compoundable offense.
It is considered a simple theft, but due to the higher value, the punishment is more severe than petty theft.
Value of Property:
The property stolen must have a value exceeding ₹50.
The value is judged at the time of theft.
Punishment:
Imprisonment: Up to 3 years (either simple or rigorous imprisonment).
Fine: The offender may be fined.
Or both: Imprisonment and fine can be imposed together.
Comparison:
Section 379: Theft of property up to ₹50.
Section 380: Theft in a dwelling house (housebreaking) with increased punishment.
Section 381: Theft by clerk or servant.
👮♂️ Example:
If a person steals a mobile phone worth ₹10,000, Section 280 applies (since the value exceeds ₹50).
If a person steals a pen worth ₹20, Section 379 applies (since value is below ₹50).
Important Note:
The threshold of ₹50 is relatively low, so most theft cases involving valuable items fall under Section 280.
The IPC has multiple sections dealing with theft depending on circumstances (e.g., theft after breaking into a house is more serious).
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