Indian Penal Code, 1860
Section 288
repealedNegligent conduct with respect to pulling down or repairing buildings
Whoever, in pulling down or repairing any building, knowingly or negligently omits to take such order with that building as is sufficient to guard against any probable danger to human life from the fall of that building, or of any part thereof, shall be punished with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to six months, or with fine which may extend to one thousand rupees, or with both.
Why this exists
Demolition and repair work near roads or occupied buildings can easily injure or kill passers-by if debris or collapsing walls are not properly managed. This section makes such negligence a criminal offence, encouraging basic precautions like barricades, warning signs, and safe work practices during construction or demolition. Under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, this offence continues under a renumbered section.