What is Section 171D IPC? Personation at elections
Published on: Lawiz Team
Detailed explanation of Section 171D IPC: Personation at elections.
Official Legal Text
Whoever at an election applies for a voting paper or votes in the name of any other person, whether living or dead, or in a fictitious name, or who having voted once at such election applies at the same election for a voting paper in his own name, 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 171D punishes anyone who votes or attempts to vote in an election while pretending to be another person.
Purpose
To prevent fraudulent voting in elections.
Bailable or Not Bailable & Punishment
Bailable: Non-Bailable, Punishment: Imprisonment up to 1 year, or fine, or both.
Key Elements
Falsely claiming to be another person to cast a vote in an election.
Punishment Details
Punishment is specified under Section 171F (punishment for personation).
Legal Defenses
If the person can prove they were genuinely mistaken about their identity.
Judicial Interpretation
Courts require proof of fraudulent intent to personate.
Illustration
If a person votes using someone else’s voter ID, they can be punished under Section 171D.
FAQs
What does Section 171D IPC define?
Personation at elections.
Where is Section 171D IPC applicable?
It applies to offences related to elections, public service duties, and lawful procedures.
Why is Section 171D IPC important?
It ensures fairness in elections, honesty in public dealings, and compliance with lawful summons.
Give an example involving Section 171D IPC.
Cases like election bribery, refusal to attend court after summons, or false statements under oath.
What punishment is applicable under Section 171D IPC?
Punishment varies from fines to imprisonment depending on the offence seriousness.
Are there related sections linked with Section 171D IPC?
Yes, it relates to public order, election integrity, and criminal procedure compliance.
How have courts interpreted Section 171D IPC?
Courts interpret strictly to protect democratic processes and ensure lawful public conduct.