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IPC Section 285 - Negligent conduct with respect to fire or combustible matter
Last Updated: 01 Nov, 2026
By Advocate Chikirsha Mohanty
(The upper limit of the fine is increased from one thousand to two thousand rupees.)
Please refer to BNS 287 for updated procedures & punishments.
Whoever does, with fire or any combustible matter, any act so rashly or negligently as to endanger human life, or to be likely to cause hurt or injury to any other person, or knowingly or negligently omits to take such order with any fire or any combustible matter in his possession as is sufficient to guard against any probable danger to human life from such fire or combustible matter, shall be punished with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to six months, or with fine which may extend to one thousand rupees, or with both.
IPC 285 in Simple Words
According to section 285 of the Indian Penal Code, if someone handles fire or any combustible matter recklessly or negligently, endangering human life or causing harm to others, or fails to take necessary precautions with such materials to prevent such dangers, they can be punished with imprisonment of up to six months, a fine of up to one thousand rupees, or both.
Negligent conduct with respect to fire or combustible matter
| Offence | Punishment | Cognizance | Bail | Triable |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dealing with fire or any combustible matter so as to endanger human life, etc. | 6 Months or Fine or Both | Cognizable | Bailable | Any Magistrate |
Offence : Dealing with fire or any combustible matter so as to endanger human life, etc.
Punishment : 6 Months or Fine or Both
Cognizance : Cognizable
Bail : Bailable
Triable : Any Magistrate
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