Section 99 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023
📘 Section 99 – Compounding of Offences
⚖️ What Section 99 says (in simple terms):
Certain offences under the law can be compounded, meaning the complainant or victim agrees to settle the matter with the accused without proceeding with a formal trial or punishment.
The court or authority may allow this settlement, subject to certain conditions.
Compounding is allowed only for offences specified by law, usually less serious ones.
Once compounded, the accused will be discharged and no further prosecution will continue for that offence.
🧾 Breakdown of Key Elements:
| Element | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Compounding | Legal settlement between victim and accused, ending prosecution. |
| Specified Offences | Only offences listed as compoundable by law can be settled this way. |
| Consent of Complainant | The victim or complainant agrees to the settlement. |
| Approval by Court/Authority | The court or designated authority must approve the compounding. |
| Effect | Case is closed, and accused is freed from further trial on that offence. |
🔍 Purpose of Section 99:
To reduce the burden on courts by allowing amicable settlements.
To provide a way for minor disputes to be resolved without lengthy trials.
To promote reconciliation between parties.
📝 Example:
In a case of minor assault where the victim agrees to forgive the accused after an apology and compensation,
The court may allow the offence to be compounded and close the case.
🚨 Important Notes:
Not all offences can be compounded — serious crimes like murder, rape, etc., are excluded.
The court carefully reviews such applications to ensure fairness and voluntariness.
Compounding does not apply if the offence involves public interest or wider social harm.
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