| Abstract: |
The distinction between culpable homicide and murder remains one of the most intricate and debated aspects of criminal law in India. Under the Indian Penal Code, 1860 (IPC), culpable homicide is defined in Section 299, while murder is defined under Section 300. This research provides a comparative analysis of these two categories under both the IPC and the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 (BNS), highlighting the essential elements such as actus reus, mens rea, and causation. Drawing from landmark case laws like State of Andhra Pradesh v. Rayavarapu Punnayya (1976) and Virsa Singh v. State of Punjab (1958), the paper examines how courts interpret intention, knowledge, and exceptional circumstances. Ultimately, this study provides a nuanced understanding of how Indian courts navigate the thin line between these two grave crimes. |
