Offences in Indian criminal law are classified into compoundable and non-compoundable offences based on their severity and the nature of the crime.
A compoundable offence is one where the complainant or the victim can agree to have the charges dropped against the accused, often through a compromise or settlement, with the court’s permission.
On the other hand, a non-compoundable offence is more serious and cannot be settled privately between the parties. These offences require prosecution by the state, and the court proceeds with the case irrespective of any agreement between the accused and the victim.
Murder is one of the gravest offences under the Indian Penal Code and is classified as a non-compoundable offence. It involves the intentional and unlawful killing of another person, and due to its serious nature, it cannot be compromised or settled privately.
Conclusion:
Among the options, murder is a non-compoundable offence, reflecting the severity and public interest involved in prosecuting such crimes.