Slapping or shoving someone without causing a serious injury is not really a crime.

Even minor intentional hurt, like a slap causing pain, is a punishable criminal offence under this section, though the punishment is comparatively light.

Indian Penal Code, 1860

Section 323

repealed

Punishment for voluntarily causing hurt

Whoever, except in the case provided for by section 334, voluntarily causes hurt, shall be punished with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to one year, or with fine which may extend to one thousand rupees, or with both.§

Why this exists

This section prescribes the basic punishment for intentionally causing ordinary hurt, the most common and least severe category of physical assault offence under the IPC, serving as the baseline penalty before the law moves to harsher provisions for hurt caused by dangerous weapons, or for grievous hurt. Section 334 is separately referenced because it covers hurt caused under grave and sudden provocation, which carries a different, generally lighter, punishment. Under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, this offence is now covered under Section 115(2).

Common misconceptions

Myth: Slapping or shoving someone without causing a serious injury is not really a crime.
Fact: Even minor intentional hurt, like a slap causing pain, is a punishable criminal offence under this section, though the punishment is comparatively light.