Section 57 of IPC : Section 57: Fractions of terms of punishment

Explanation using Example

Example 1:

Ravi was convicted of a crime and sentenced to life imprisonment. However, due to good behavior, he is eligible for parole after serving a fraction of his sentence. According to Section 57 of the Indian Penal Code, life imprisonment is considered equivalent to 20 years. Therefore, if the law allows parole after serving half of the sentence, Ravi would be eligible for parole after serving 10 years (half of 20 years).

Example 2:

Sita was sentenced to life imprisonment for a serious offense. Later, a new law was passed allowing prisoners to apply for a reduction in their sentence if they have served a significant portion of it and have shown good behavior. According to Section 57, her life imprisonment is treated as 20 years. If the new law states that prisoners can apply for a reduction after serving three-fourths of their sentence, Sita can apply for a reduction after serving 15 years (three-fourths of 20 years).