House Break-Ins

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When someone commits theft by breaking into a house, they are punished with a higher penalty. It is a crime if anyone commits theft by:

Breaking into any tent, house, etc. which is used for the purpose of living by humans or to store property, they will be punished with jail time of up to 7 years and a fine(( Section 380. Indian Penal Code, 1860.)).
Enters into any building to commit a crime, or to intimidate, insult or annoy any person who possesses the property, then he will be punished with jail time of up to 3 months and/or a fine up to Rs. 500.(( Section 441 and 447. Indian Penal Code, 1860.))

If you have faced a house break-in while theft, read here to understand the steps/options you can take to complain.

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Related Resources

What is Theft?

Theft is when someone takes away your property without your consent. Theft is a crime in India and the person committing theft is punished with jail time of up to 3 years and/or a fine.

Types of Theft

Theft is not just a crime if personal items are stolen. Many other forms of theft are there and the law punishes people who commit theft based on the situation as well as depending on who they are.

Theft of Electricity

Under the Indian law, theft of electricity happens when someone tampers meters, damages electric meters or equipment, etc.

Theft of Computer-Related Data

Sometimes, your personal data stored on the computer may be stolen. This is also a form of theft, under the Indian law.

Complaining about Theft

If you face any kind of theft, such as theft of personal items or theft during traveling, you can file an FIR with the nearest police station.

Theft by House Help/Servant (Domestic Worker)

Theft by a servant or house help is treated more seriously than general punishment for theft as the punishment is higher. Punishment for the servant/help is jail time of up to 7 years and a fine.