IPC Section 84 — Act of a person of unsound mind

Summary

If a person is unable to understand what they are doing, or that it is wrong or against the law, because of a mental condition at that moment, then their action is not considered an offence. This rule applies only if the person was of unsound mind at the exact time they performed the act.

Official Text

Nothing is an offence which is done by a person who, at the time of doing it, by reason of unsoundness of mind, is incapable of knowing the nature of the act, or that he is doing what is either wrong or contrary to law.

Related Judgments

• S.C.R. 133 SURENDERA MISHRA v. STATE OF JHARKHAND — Supreme Court of India (2011)
• SC (2023) Vol.1 p.823 — Supreme Court of India (2023)
• .. Appellant/Sole accused vs The State represented by — Madras High Court (2012)
• .. Appellant/Sole Accused vs State rep.by — Madras High Court ()
• SC (2025) Vol.4 p.1816 — Supreme Court of India (2025)
• ..Appellant/Accused vs State by — Madras High Court (2011)
• CRL A/313/2001 — Madras High Court (2001)
• ... Appellant / Sole Accused vs State, rep.by — Madras High Court ()

Old <-> New Code Mapping

• BNS §22 — Act of a person of unsound mind