What Is BNSS Section 476?

Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023 - Section 476: Restriction on powers of remission or commutation in certain cases.

Notwithstanding anything contained in section 474, where a sentence of imprisonment for life is imposed on conviction of a person for an offence for which death is one of the punishments provided by law, or where a sentence of death imposed on a person has been commuted under section 475 into one of imprisonment for life, such person shall not be released from prison unless he has served at least fourteen years of imprisonment.

Brefe Detail

This section restricts the powers of remission or commutation in specific cases. If a person is sentenced to life imprisonment for an offense that could result in a death sentence, or if their death sentence is commuted to life imprisonment, they must serve a minimum of fourteen years in prison before being eligible for release.

Question & Answers

What does Section 476 state about imprisonment for life?

It states that a person sentenced to imprisonment for life for an offense that could result in death cannot be released until they have served at least fourteen years.

Can a person sentenced to death be released after commutation?

No, if a death sentence is commuted to life imprisonment, the person must still serve at least fourteen years before release.

What is the minimum time a person must serve if sentenced to life imprisonment?

The minimum time to be served is fourteen years.

Are there exceptions to the fourteen-year requirement?

No, the section does not provide exceptions to this requirement for those convicted of serious offenses.

Example

1. If an individual is convicted of murder and sentenced to life imprisonment, they must remain in prison for at least fourteen years before being considered for release.

2. A person whose death sentence is commuted to life imprisonment will also need to serve a minimum of fourteen years in prison.

Summary

Section 476 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita restricts the remission or commutation of sentences for individuals convicted of serious offenses. It mandates that those sentenced to life imprisonment or those whose death sentences are commuted must serve a minimum of fourteen years in prison before being eligible for release.