Maha raises jail term for chain snatchers by up to 5 yrs

The Maharashtra government has decided to increase the punishment for chain snatching by up to 5 years of rigorous imprisonment along with a fine of Rs 25,000, if a person is found guilty of the crime.

The state Cabinet has cleared amendments to Indian Penal Code Sections 379, 397-A (1)(2) and Section 379-B along with the CrPC Act-1973, thus increasing the punishment up to five years rigorous imprisonment and Rs 25,000 fine, in case of grievous injury to the victim.

In cases other chain snatching incidents (in which victim is not injured), the punishment ranges between 2-5 years. In a statement, the government noted that there has been a rise in incidents of chain snatching.

In major cities, there has been a rise in number of chain snatching incidents, and in some cases people have lost their lives in the process, it said.

The new additional Section of 379-A(1) will define chain snatching as a crime and the convict will be sentenced under Section 379-A(2), which provides minimum of 2 years and maximum of 5 years rigorous imprisonment.