Principle: Common intention under Section 34 IPC requires a prior meeting of minds, pre-arranged plan, and active participation in the commission of the offence.
Facts: Three armed men, A, B, and C, plan a bank robbery. A and B enter the vault and shoot the guard, while C stands outside guarding the getaway car with engine running. Can C be held liable for the murder committed inside?

Answer and explanation

Correct answer: D. Yes, participants acting in furtherance of common intention share equal liability (Section 34)

  1. Step 1: Under Section 34 of the Indian Penal Code, when a criminal act is done by several persons in furtherance of the common intention of all, each individual is liable for that act in the same manner as if it were done by them alone.
  2. Step 2: The robbery was planned in advance by the three men, and C actively participated by guarding the getaway car with the engine running to facilitate the crime and escape. Physical presence inside the vault is not required to establish liability for acts done in furtherance of the common plan.
  3. Step 3: Consequently, C is jointly liable for the murder under Section 34.
Answer
Yes, under Section 34 IPC, all participants who act in furtherance of a common intention are equally liable for the resulting acts.

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