Rules of definition and interpretation in IPC
Table of Contents
Section 6. Definitions in Code to be understood subject to exceptions
Every definition of
(a) an offence,
(b) penal provisions, and
(c) illustration of every definition or penal provisions
to be understood subject to exception given in Chapter ‘General exception’
Illustrations
The sections, in the Code, which contain definitions of offences, do not express that a child under seven years of age cannot commit such offences; but the definitions are to be understood subject to the general exception which provides that nothing shall be an offence which is done by a child under seven years of age.
A, a police-officer, without warrant, apprehends Z, who has committed murder. Here A is not guilty of the offence of wrongful confinement; for he was bound by law to apprehend Z, and therefore the case falls within the general exception which provides that “nothing is an offence which is done by a person who is bound by law to do it”.
Section 7. Sense of expression once explained
Every expression which is explained in any part of the Code [Indian penal code], is to be used in every part of the Code in conformity with the explanation.
Section 8. Gender, use of he
The pronoun “he” and its derivatives are used of any person, whether male or female.
Section 9. Number, singular number or plural number
Unless the contrary appears from the context,
(a) words importing the singular number include the plural number, and (b) words importing the plural number include the singular number.
Also visit : –> IPC Bare Act | –> IPC Chapters | –> IPC Notes