Grievous Hurt – A Medicolegal
Perspective
• Based on Dr. K.S. Narayan Reddy’s Essentials of
Forensic Medicine and Toxicology
Introduction
• Definition of Hurt (Section 319 IPC):
• "Whoever causes bodily pain, disease or
infirmity to any person is said to cause hurt."
• Definition of Grievous Hurt (Section 320 IPC):
• "The following kinds of hurt only are
designated as 'grievous':"
• Importance: Understanding the medicolegal
implications of injuries is crucial for medical
professionals.
Types of Grievous Hurt (Section
320 IPC)
• 1. Emasculation
• 2. Permanent privation of sight of either eye
• 3. Permanent privation of hearing of either
ear
• 4. Privation of any member or joint
• 5. Destruction or permanent impairing of the
powers of any member or joint
• 6. Permanent disfiguration of the head or face
• 7. Fracture or dislocation of a bone or tooth
Medicolegal Significance
• Legal Implications: Grievous hurt is a
cognizable and non-bailable offense.
• Punishment: Section 325 IPC - up to 7 years +
fine; Section 326 IPC - life imprisonment if
caused by dangerous weapons.
• Medical Role: Accurate assessment and
documentation are vital.
Distinction Between Hurt and
Grievous Hurt
• Criteria | Hurt | Grievous Hurt
• Severity | Minor injuries | Severe injuries with
lasting consequences
• Recovery | Short-term | Prolonged or
permanent
• Legal Consequences | Lesser punishment |
Harsher punishment
• Examples | Bruises, minor cuts | Fractures,
loss of limb, sensory loss
Case Studies
• Case 1: Loss of vision in one eye due to assault
– Grievous hurt under clause 2 of Section 320
IPC.
• Case 2: Fracture of femur bone from RTA –
Grievous hurt under clause 7 of Section 320
IPC.
Medical Examination and
Documentation
• Assessment: Detailed clinical examination of
injuries.
• Documentation: Clear medico-legal reports
using accurate terminology.
• Expert Opinion: Determination if injury
qualifies as grievous hurt.
Conclusion
• Grievous hurt involves specific serious injuries
with significant legal implications.
• Medical professionals are key in identifying,
documenting, and interpreting these injuries.
• Knowledge of legal definitions and accurate
reporting is essential.
References
• Narayan Reddy, K.S. Essentials of Forensic
Medicine and Toxicology, 35th Ed, Jaypee
Brothers, 2022.
• Indian Penal Code, Sections 319–326.