Supreme Court of India Rulings Upholding Section 84 of the IPC: The Insanity Defense in Action
The Indian Penal Code (IPC), 1860 ,under Section 84 , provides a defense for individuals who, due to unsoundness of mind, are incapable of understanding the nature or wrongfulness of their actions at the time of committing an offense. Rooted in the McNaughten Rules, this provision ensures that those suffering from severe mental disorders are not held criminally liable if their cognitive faculties are significantly impaired. The Supreme Court of India has applied Section 84 in several landmark cases, balancing justice with compassion for the mentally ill. Below, we explore key rulings where the insanity defense was upheld, highlighting case details, judicial reasoning, and their significance in Indian jurisprudence. Understanding Section 84 of the IPC Section 84 states: “Nothing is an offence which is done by a person who, at the time of doing it, by reason of unsoundness of mind, is incapable of knowing the nature of the act, or that he is doing what is either wrong or contrary to...