Criminal intimidation

Is BNS Section 351 bailable?

This is a bailable offence, meaning bail can generally be granted as a matter of right by the police or the court.

What is the punishment under this section?

Imprisonment up to 2 years, or fine, or both (up to 7 years for threats of death, grievous hurt, or destruction by fire). Courts have discretion based on the facts of each case, and the actual outcome can vary.

Can a case under this section be compounded (settled)?

Yes — this offence can be compounded (settled) between the parties without needing separate court permission, though procedure varies by state.

Is the escalated punishment for threats of death still the same?

Yes — threats of death, grievous hurt, or destruction of property by fire continue to attract enhanced punishment of up to seven years, unchanged from IPC Section 506.

Does the definition of intimidation change under BNS?

No — the underlying definition, requiring a threat made with intent to cause alarm or compel unlawful conduct, remains the same as under the earlier IPC provisions.

Which section covers anonymous or written threats?

This section applies regardless of the medium used to convey the threat — spoken, written, or anonymous — as long as the required intent to cause alarm or compel unlawful conduct is established.