Indian Penal Code, 1860
Section 350
repealedCriminal force
Whoever intentionally uses force to any person, without that person’s consent, in order to the committing of any offence, or intending by the use of such force to cause, or knowing it to be likely that by the use of such force he will cause injury, fear or annoyance to the person to whom the force is used, is said to use criminal force to that other.
Why this exists
This section builds on the basic definition of 'force' in Section 349 by adding the crucial element of wrongful intent or likely harmful effect, distinguishing ordinary, incidental physical contact from force that crosses into criminal territory. It lays the groundwork for the assault-related offences that follow.
How courts read it
Courts have emphasised that lack of consent and either intent or knowledge of likely injury, fear, or annoyance are essential; accidental or consensual contact, like an accidental jostle in a crowd, does not meet this definition.
Common misconceptions
- Myth: Any unwanted touch, even accidental, is criminal force.
Fact: Criminal force requires either an intention to cause injury, fear, or annoyance, or the person using force must at least know that such an effect was likely; purely accidental contact does not qualify.