IPC Section 326: Grievous Hurt by Dangerous Weapon
What you need to know
IPC Section 326 (Indian Penal Code, now BNS Section 118) deals with voluntarily causing grievous hurt by dangerous weapons or means — such as acid, fire, explosives, or any instrument used for shooting, stabbing, or cutting. This is a cognizable, non-bailable, and non-compoundable offence, meaning police must register an FIR and the accused cannot be released on bail as a matter of right. Victims have a legal right to file a police complaint, seek medical assistance at government hospitals free of charge, and pursue compensation through a criminal court. If you are a victim, you can also approach the State Legal Services Authority for free legal aid.
Your rights
Right to free medical treatment at any government hospital immediately after the incident
Right to have an FIR registered without delay at the nearest police station (cognizable offence)
Right to free legal aid from the District or State Legal Services Authority (DLSA/SLSA)
Right to claim victim compensation under Section 357A CrPC / BNSS from the state government
What you should do now
Action firstSeek immediate medical help
- Go to the nearest government hospital — treatment cannot be denied; this is mandatory under law
- Ensure all injuries are documented in the Medico-Legal Case (MLC) report; ask for a copy
File an FIR at the police station
- Visit the nearest police station and give a written complaint; police must register an FIR (cognizable offence)
- If police refuse, send a complaint to the Superintendent of Police or file a private complaint before the Magistrate under CrPC S.156(3) / BNSS
- Collect the FIR copy — you are legally entitled to one free of charge
Preserve evidence
- Photograph all injuries and the scene; keep clothing or objects used in the attack
- Collect names and contact details of all eyewitnesses
Claim compensation and legal aid
- Apply to the District Legal Services Authority (DLSA) for free legal representation
- Submit a victim compensation application to the DLSA under Section 357A CrPC — state funds can cover medical and rehabilitation costs
Acts applicable
Indian Penal Code / Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita
centralIPC S.326 / BNS S.118 — grievous hurt by dangerous weapon; up to 10 years imprisonment or life
Code of Criminal Procedure / BNSS
centralS.357A — victim compensation scheme
Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act
centralS.3(2)(v) — additional charge if victim belongs to SC/ST community