Facts of the Case
- A intentionally fired 10 bullets into the body of B.
- B died on the spot due to multiple gunshot injuries.
- The act of firing so many bullets clearly demonstrates deliberate intention to cause death.
- There was no evidence of provocation or self-defence mentioned in the facts.
- The question arises whether this act constitutes murder under the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and what punishment A may receive.
Issues in the Case
- Whether A had the intention to cause the death of B?
- Whether pumping 10 bullets amounts to murder under Section 300 IPC?
- Whether any exceptions to Section 300 IPC (sudden provocation, self-defence, etc.) apply?
- What punishment can be imposed under Section 302 IPC?
- Whether the nature of the act leaves any room for lesser charge such as culpable homicide?
Legal Principles Covered to Support the Case
A. Section 299 IPC – Culpable Homicide
Defines causing death with the intention of causing death or bodily injury likely to cause death.
B. Section 300 IPC – Murder
Culpable homicide becomes murder when:
- The act is done with the intention of causing death, OR
- Done with the intention of causing such bodily injury as the offender knows to be likely to cause death, OR
- The act is so imminently dangerous that it must, in all probability, cause death.
Application to the Case
- Firing 10 bullets at vital parts of the body shows clear mens rea to kill.
- The manner of attack shows deliberate and premeditated intention.
- No mitigating factors or exceptions mentioned in the problem.
Thus, the act squarely falls under Section 300 – Murder.
C. Section 302 IPC – Punishment for Murder
If the act amounts to murder under Section 300 IPC, the punishment is:
- Death penalty, or
- Imprisonment for life, and
- Fine.
Courts usually award life imprisonment unless the case falls under the “rarest of rare” category.
D. Case Law Support
- Virsa Singh v. State of Punjab (1958)
- If the injury is intentional and sufficient in the ordinary course of nature to cause death, it is murder.
- State of M.P. v. Saleem (2005)
- Use of a deadly weapon on vital parts strongly indicates intention to kill.
- Machhi Singh v. State of Punjab (1983)
- Multiple gunshots fired at close range show clear intention to cause death.
In this case, pumping 10 bullets is clear proof of intention and brutality.
Possible Judgment
Offence Committed
A has committed the offence of murder under:
- Section 300 IPC (definition), and
- Section 302 IPC (punishment).
Reasoning
- The act was intentional, brutal, and deliberate.
- Multiple gunshots (10 bullets) show clear preparation and intention to kill.
- No evidence of any exception under Section 300 (grave and sudden provocation, private defence, sudden fight, etc.).
Punishment
A is liable for:
- Imprisonment for life, OR
- Death penalty, depending on the court’s assessment.
- Additionally, a fine may be imposed.
Given the brutality of pumping 10 bullets, courts may consider it close to the “rarest of rare” category, though the final decision depends on circumstances (motive, planning, brutality).
About lawgnan
Understanding how intention is determined in murder cases is crucial for law students, legal researchers, and those involved in criminal trials. When a person fires multiple bullets at close range, the law presumes a deliberate intention to kill. Lawgana.in provides detailed guidance on how courts handle such brutal acts under Section 300 IPC and impose punishment under Section 302 IPC. Explore latest judgments, legal interpretations, and expert analysis to strengthen your knowledge of criminal law. Visit Lawgana.in today for clear explanations, practical case notes, and reliable legal resources that help you stay informed and empowered.
