Mischief is a legal term used to describe actions that intentionally cause damage to property or interfere with someone else's lawful use of property. It is considered a criminal offence under the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita (BNS) Section 324 and can lead to legal consequences.

• Mischief with Intent { Section 324}: Committing mischief knowing it may cause damage or harm to any person, regardless of property ownership.

  • Punishment: Basic mischief may lead to imprisonment up to 6 months, fine, or both.

  • Higher Damage: Mischief causing loss over Rs. 20,000 but less than Rs. 1 lakh may lead to imprisonment up to 2 years, fine, or both.

  • Severe Damage: Loss or damage of Rs. 1 lakh or more can lead to imprisonment up to 5 years, fine, or both.

  • Dangerous Mischief: Mischief with preparation for causing death or hurt is punishable by up to 5 years in prison, fine, or both.

• Mischief by Killing Animals {Section 325}: Punishable with up to 5 years imprisonment, fine, or both.

• Mischief by injury, fire or explosives substances,etc {Section 326}:

  • Water Supply Mischief: Causing a reduction in water supply for essential uses can lead to up to 5 years imprisonment, fine, or both.

  • Road or Channel Blockage: Rendering roads, bridges, or channels impassable can result in up to 5 years imprisonment, fine, or both.

  • Public Drainage Mischief: Causing obstruction to public drainage with damage results in up to 5 years imprisonment, fine, or both.

  • Navigation Sign Damage: Destroying or moving navigation signs is punishable by up to 7 years imprisonment, fine, or both.

  • Landmark Damage: Destroying public landmarks can lead to up to 1 year imprisonment, fine, or both.

  • Fire or Explosive Damage: Using fire or explosives to damage property can result in up to 7 years imprisonment, fine, or both.

  • Religious or Dwelling Place Destruction: Using fire or explosives to destroy places of worship or dwellings can lead to life imprisonment, up to 10 years imprisonment, and fine.

  • Rail, Aircraft, or Vessel Mischief: Damaging rails, aircraft, or large vessels can result in up to 10 years imprisonment, fine, or both.

  • Attempt with Explosives: Attempting mischief with fire or explosives on transport is punishable by life imprisonment or up to 10 years, plus fine.

Steps to Take If You Are a Victim of Mischief:

1. Report the Incident:

   • File a complaint at the nearest police station, providing details of the damage or interference caused by the act of mischief.

2. Collect Evidence:

   • Gather any evidence, such as photographs, videos, or witness statements, to support your claim.

3. Legal Action:

   • Consult with a lawyer to understand your legal options and file a case in court if necessary.

4. Compensation:

   • You may also seek compensation for the damages caused by the act of mischief through civil litigation.