Cl. 304 of the BNS introduces snatching as a separate offence and as a special category of the offence of theft. The clause states, theft is “snatching” if, in order to commit theft, the offender suddenly or quickly or forcibly seizes or secures or grabs or takes away from any person or from his possession any moveable property. The introduction of Snatching as a separate category of offence is to address the growing menace of snatching in the country. Mobile phone and chain snatching are frequently reported from many parts of the country.
- Most of these incidents are currently booked under Sections 356 or 379 of IPC, both of which have their own shortcomings. Section 356 is bailable and Section 379 does not account for the aspect of injury to the victim. In some states like Punjab and Haryana, Special Acts have also been introduced which make Snatching a distinct offence