Things done in private defence

Acts done in the exercise of the right of private defence are not offences. This applies when a person uses necessary, proportionate force to protect themselves or their property from an unlawful attack. The consequence is that such conduct will not be treated as a criminal offence so long as it stays within legal limits of private defence.

Ravi is closing his shop when a stranger tries to snatch his cashbox; Ravi seizes the stranger and pushes him away, causing a minor injury. Because Ravi used force to fend off an unlawful attack, his act is not an offence under the right of private defence.