Indian Penal Code, 1860

Right of private defence of the body and of property.

97. Every person has a right, subject to the restrictions contained in section 99, to defend-

First-His own body, and the body of any other person, against any offence affecting the human body;

Secondly-The property, whether movable or immovable, of himself or of any other person, against any act which is an offence falling under the definition of theft, robbery, mischief or criminal trespass, or which is an attempt to commit theft, robbery, mischief or criminal trespass.