Alberto Anario 25 October 2020

what is the difference between IPC 386 and 387 ?

Quick Summary

This discussion clarifies the distinction between Section 386 and Section 387 of the Indian Penal Code. Section 386 deals with the actual commission of extortion by putting someone in fear of death or grievous hurt, carrying a penalty of up to ten years imprisonment. In contrast, Section 387 covers the attempt to commit extortion by creating such fear, even if the extortion itself isn't completed, with a penalty of up to seven years imprisonment.

3 Replies

P. Venu (Advocate) 26 October 2020

What are the facts? What is the context?

Rajinder Goyal 02 November 2020

Hey,

Section 386:- Extortion by putting a person in fear of death or grievous hurt.—Whoever commits extortion by putting any person in fear of death or of grievous hurt to that person or to any other, shall be punished with imprisonment of either descripttion for a term which may extend to ten years, and shall also be liable to fine.

Section 387:- Putting person in fear of death or of grievous hurt, in order to commit extortion. — Whoever, in order to the committing of extortion, puts or attempts to put any person in fear of death or of grievous hurt to that person or to any other, shall be punished with imprisonment of either descripttion for a term which may extend to seven years, and shall also be liable to fine.”

The offence under Section 386 is a more serious form of extortion. Here, the victim is put under the fear of death or grievous hurt and the extortion is actually committed whereas under section 387 merely an attempt to extort by putting a person in fear of death or grievous hurt is enough, the actual commission of extortion is not necessary.

Hope this helps!

Shweta Bharti (--) 14 March 2026

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