BNSS Section 31 — Public when to assist Magistrates and police

Summary

Every person must help a Magistrate or police officer when that officer reasonably asks for assistance. This help is required in three situations: first, to catch someone the officer is allowed to arrest or to stop that person from escaping; second, to prevent or stop a disturbance of public order; and third, to prevent any harm that is being attempted to public property.

Official Text

Every person is bound to assist a Magistrate or police officer reasonably demanding his aid—

(a) in the taking or preventing the escape of any other person whom such Magistrate or police officer is authorised to arrest; or

(b) in the prevention or suppression of a breach of the peace; or

(c) in the prevention of any injury attempted to be committed to any public property.

Old <-> New Code Mapping

• CrPC §37 — Public when to assist Magistrates and police