What is Section 176 IPC? Omission to give notice or information to public servant
Published on: Lawiz Team
Detailed explanation of Section 176 IPC: Omission to give notice or information to public servant.
Official Legal Text
Whoever, being legally bound to give any notice or to furnish any information to any public servant, intentionally omits to give such notice or to furnish such information in the manner and at the time required by law, 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;
Or, if the notice or information required to be given respects the commission of an offence, or is required for the purpose of preventing the commission of an offence, or in order to apprehend an offender, 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 176 punishes any person who fails to provide information or notice to a public servant when legally required to do so.
Purpose
To ensure that individuals provide important information to public authorities as required by law.
Bailable or Not Bailable & Punishment
Bailable: Bailable, Punishment: Imprisonment up to 1 month, or fine up to 500 rupees, or both; If the information is required for preventing harm, imprisonment up to 6 months, or fine up to 1,000 rupees, or both.
Key Elements
Failure to give notice or information to a public servant, despite being legally bound to do so.
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 were unaware of the legal requirement or had a valid reason for not providing the information.
Judicial Interpretation
Courts examine whether the person was legally bound to provide the information.
Illustration
If a person knows about a planned crime but fails to inform the police, they can be punished under Section 176.
FAQs
What does Section 176 IPC define?
Omission to give notice or information to public servant by person legally bound to give it.
Where is Section 176 IPC applicable?
It applies to offences related to elections, public service duties, and lawful procedures.
Why is Section 176 IPC important?
It ensures fairness in elections, honesty in public dealings, and compliance with lawful summons.
Give an example involving Section 176 IPC.
Cases like election bribery, refusal to attend court after summons, or false statements under oath.
What punishment is applicable under Section 176 IPC?
Punishment varies from fines to imprisonment depending on the offence seriousness.
Are there related sections linked with Section 176 IPC?
Yes, it relates to public order, election integrity, and criminal procedure compliance.
How have courts interpreted Section 176 IPC?
Courts interpret strictly to protect democratic processes and ensure lawful public conduct.