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Actus Reus and Mens Rea:  In the realm of criminal law, two key concepts form the cornerstone of criminal liability: actus reus and mens rea . These Latin terms are crucial for determining whether an individual is guilty of committing a crime. While actus reus refers to the external act of committing a crime, mens rea concerns the mental state or intention behind it. Together, they provide a balanced framework to ensure that only those who consciously choose to commit a crime are held accountable. In this blog, we’ll explore the meanings of actus reus and mens rea , their definitions under the Indian Penal Code (IPC), and delve into their application through recent case law, particularly in light of the BNSS case. Let’s break it down. What is Actus Reus? Actus Reus , in simple terms, means the "guilty act" in a crime. It refers to the physical act or omission that constitutes the crime. In order for an individual to be held criminally liable, there must be...