What is Section 175 IPC? Omission to produce document or electronic record to public servant

Published on: Lawiz Team

Detailed explanation of Section 175 IPC: Omission to produce document or electronic record to public servant.

Official Legal Text

Whoever, being legally bound to produce or deliver up any document or electronic record to any public servant, as such, intentionally omits to produce or deliver up the same, shall be punished with simple imprisonment for a term which may extend to one month, or with fine which may extend to five hundred rupees, or with both;

And if the document or electronic record is to be produced or delivered up to a Court of Justice, with simple imprisonment for a term which may extend to six months, or with fine which may extend to one thousand rupees, or with both.

What This IPC Section Means – Explained in Simple Words

Section 175 punishes any person who fails to produce a document or electronic record they are legally required to produce before a public servant.

Purpose

To ensure compliance with lawful orders to produce evidence or documents.

Bailable or Not Bailable & Punishment

Bailable: Bailable, Punishment: Imprisonment up to 1 month, or fine up to 500 rupees, or both.

Key Elements

The person must be legally bound to produce the document or record, and they must willfully omit to produce it.

Punishment Details

Simple imprisonment for a term which may extend to one month, or with fine which may extend to five hundred rupees, or with both.

Legal Defenses

If the person can prove they did not have the document or were unaware of the legal requirement.

Judicial Interpretation

Courts examine whether the document was legally required and whether the omission was willful.

Illustration

If a person is legally required to produce a contract but refuses, they can be punished under Section 175.

FAQs

What does Section 175 IPC define?

Omission to produce document or electronic record to public servant by person legally bound to produce it.

Where is Section 175 IPC applicable?

It applies to offences related to elections, public service duties, and lawful procedures.

Why is Section 175 IPC important?

It ensures fairness in elections, honesty in public dealings, and compliance with lawful summons.

Give an example involving Section 175 IPC.

Cases like election bribery, refusal to attend court after summons, or false statements under oath.

What punishment is applicable under Section 175 IPC?

Punishment varies from fines to imprisonment depending on the offence seriousness.

Are there related sections linked with Section 175 IPC?

Yes, it relates to public order, election integrity, and criminal procedure compliance.

How have courts interpreted Section 175 IPC?

Courts interpret strictly to protect democratic processes and ensure lawful public conduct.