Theft is defined under the Section 303 of Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita (BNS) as, Theft involves the unlawful removal of movable property from someone’s possession without consent, driven by dishonest intention.

 Examples of Theft:

• Standard theft like pickpocketing and mobile theft or money from wallet.

• Theft from Dwelling house, or from Transport used for goods,

• Theft of Idol and icon from any worship place,

• Theft of any property of the government.

Punishment: Under Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita, 2023

• Snatching (Section 304): If offender suddenly or quickly or forcibly seizes or secure or grabs or takes away from any person. He will be punished with imprisonment of 3 years or fine.

• Standard Theft (Section 303): Up to 3 years imprisonment, fine, or both under.

• Dwelling Houses, or means of Transportation (Section 305): Up to 7 years imprisonment for theft in places used for human habitation like tent, vessel, building, house.

• Servants or Clerk (Section 306) : Theft by any clerk or servant punished up to 7 years imprisonment for theft by a servant from their employer.

• Violence and harm (Section 307): Up to 10 years imprisonment if theft involves preparation to cause death, hurt, or restraint to commit theft.

• If the value of property is less than Rupees 5000 then it would be punished by return of the value of property.

HERE IS THE FURTHER PROCEDURE IF THEFT HAPPENS: 

Investigation and Trial:

• Report Theft: Go to a nearby Police station File an FIR with the police.

• Police Role: Includes investigation, interrogation, arrest, and evidence collection.

• Court Proceedings: Includes initial hearing, bail application, evidence presentation, and judgement.

Rights of the Accused:

• Legal Representation: Right to a lawyer or legal aid.

• Bail: Right to apply for bail.

• Fair Trial: Right to a fair trial and to remain silent.

• Appeal: Right to appeal if convicted.

Rights of the Victim:

• Report Crime: Right to file a complaint to the police station and file an FIR and receive updates.

Protection and Compensation: Seek protection, compensation, and restitution for losses from the court.