BNS Section 304 — Snatching

CHAPTER XVII OF OFFENCES AGAINST PROPERTY

Criminal

Punishment

Imprisonment up to 3 years and fine

As the section puts it: “shall be punished with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to three years, and shall also be liable to fine”

Summary

Sub-section (1) defines snatching as a specific form of theft. Theft becomes snatching when the offender, in order to commit the theft, suddenly, quickly, or forcibly seizes, secures, grabs, or takes away any movable property from a person or from that person's possession.

Sub-section (2) sets out the punishment for committing snatching. The offender shall be punished with imprisonment of either description for a term that may extend to three years, and shall also be liable to a fine.

Official Text

(1) Theft is snatching if, in order to commit theft, the offender suddenly or quickly or forcibly seizes or secures or grabs or takes away from any person or from his possession any movable property.

(2) Whoever commits snatching, shall be punished with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to three years, and shall also be liable to fine.

Related Judgments

  • ASHWANI KUMAR & ANR. vs THE STATE NCT OF DELHI & ANR — Delhi High Court (2026)
  • Mr.; V.K.; Goswami; Advocate; along; with vs STATE GOVT. OF NCT OF DELHI, AND ANR — Delhi High Court (2025)
  • Santhoshkumar vs The State of Tamil Nadu, Rep by. The Inspector of Police,, Kollidam Po — Madras High Court (Madurai Bench) (2025)