Which one of the following with regards to offence of theft is correct ?
β Option A is incorrect because theft is an offence against *possession*, not necessarily ownership. One can steal from a person who is lawfully in possession but not the owner.
β Option C is incorrect because the definition explicitly requires the *moving* of the property (Section 378 Explanation 5). The taking must be accompanied by motion.
β Option D is incorrect because theft applies only to *movable* property (Section 378). Immovable property cannot be stolen under the IPC definition of theft.
β Option B is correct as dishonest intention is the fundamental mental element (mens rea) required for the offence of theft.
β βMovable propertyβ is defined in Section 22 IPC to include corporeal property of every description, except land and things attached to the earth, or permanently fastened to anything which is attached to the earth.