What is Section 166 IPC? Public servant disobeying law, with intent to cause injury to any person
Published on: Lawiz Team
Detailed explanation of Section 166 IPC: Public servant disobeying law, with intent to cause injury to any person.
Official Legal Text
Whoever, being a public servant, knowingly disobeys any direction of the law as to the way in which he is to conduct himself as such public servant, intending to cause, or knowing it to be likely that he will, by such disobedience, cause injury to any person, shall be punished with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to one year, or with fine, or with both.
What This IPC Section Means – Explained in Simple Words
Section 166 punishes a public servant who knowingly disobeys the law with the intent to cause harm to any person.
Purpose
To ensure that public servants do not misuse their authority to harm others.
Bailable or Not Bailable & Punishment
Bailable: Bailable, Punishment: Imprisonment up to 1 year, or fine, or both.
Key Elements
The public servant must know they are disobeying the law, and the disobedience must be intended to cause harm.
Punishment Details
Imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to one year, or with fine, or with both.
Legal Defenses
If the public servant can prove they acted in good faith without any intention to cause harm.
Judicial Interpretation
Courts focus on the intention to cause harm and the knowledge of disobeying the law.
Illustration
If a police officer refuses to file a complaint with the intention of protecting a criminal, they can be punished under Section 166.
FAQs
What does Section 166 IPC define?
Public servant disobeying law, with intent to cause injury to any person.
Where is Section 166 IPC applicable?
It deals with public servant disobeying law, with intent to cause injury to any person in public service or criminal situations.
Why is Section 166 IPC significant?
It protects public order, honesty in administration, and discourages criminal misconduct.
Give a real-world example involving Section 166 IPC.
Examples include public servants accepting bribes, unlawful assemblies, and misuse of official positions.
What punishment is applicable under Section 166 IPC?
Punishment varies from fines to imprisonment based on the offence's seriousness.
Is Section 166 IPC related to other provisions?
Yes, often linked with sections involving corruption, unlawful acts, or government integrity.
How do courts view Section 166 IPC?
Courts interpret it strictly to ensure justice, accountability, and safeguard public trust.