Theft while Traveling

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It is an offence to steal from someone while they are traveling.¹ For example, Ram is in an auto rickshaw, and Sham is on a bike, and Sham snatches away Ram’s bag – this will be considered as theft.

This is punishable with jail time of up to 3 years and/or a fine.² If you have experienced theft while traveling, read here to understand the steps/options you can take to complain.

Section 303(1), The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023.; Balakrishnan v. The State of Kerala [↩]
Section 303(2), The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023. [↩]

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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.

House Break-Ins

Under the Indian law, when someone commits theft by breaking into a house, they are punished with a higher penalty.

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.