Punishment for mischief

Deliberately damaging or spoiling someone else’s property (mischief) can lead to imprisonment for up to three months, a fine, or both. It applies when a person intentionally harms or destroys another’s movable or immovable property. The court decides which punishment to impose within these limits.

Priya throws paint over her neighbour Ravi’s shop shutter in an argument, spoiling it. Because she intentionally damaged another person’s property, she could be charged with mischief and, on conviction, face up to three months’ imprisonment, a fine, or both.