Section 66 of IPC : Section 66: Description of imprisonment for non-payment of fine

Explanation using Example

Example 1:

Rajesh was convicted of theft under Section 379 of the Indian Penal Code, 1860. The court sentenced him to a fine of ₹10,000. However, Rajesh was unable to pay the fine. According to Section 66 of the Indian Penal Code, the court decided to impose a term of imprisonment instead. Since the punishment for theft can include imprisonment, the court sentenced Rajesh to three months in jail as an alternative to the fine.

Example 2:

Meena was found guilty of causing public nuisance under Section 290 of the Indian Penal Code, 1860. The court imposed a fine of ₹500 on her. Meena did not have the means to pay the fine. As per Section 66, the court had the authority to impose imprisonment in lieu of the fine. Given that the maximum punishment for causing public nuisance is a fine, the court decided to sentence Meena to one week of imprisonment as a substitute for the unpaid fine.