What is Section 177 IPC? Furnishing false information
Published on: Lawiz Team
Learn about Section 177 IPC: Furnishing false information
Official Legal Text
Whoever, being legally bound to furnish information on any subject to any public servant, furnishes, as true, information on the subject which he knows or has reason to believe to be false, shall be punished 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;
And if the information which he is legally bound to give 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, shall be punished with simple imprisonment for a term which may extend to two years, or with fine, or with both.
What This IPC Section Means – Explained in Simple Words
Section 177 punishes any person who knowingly provides false information to a public servant, intending to deceive them in the exercise of their lawful duties.
Purpose
To ensure that public servants receive accurate information while performing their duties.
Bailable or Not Bailable & Punishment
Bailable: Bailable, Punishment: Imprisonment up to 6 months, or fine up to 1,000 rupees, or both; If the false information is given in connection with the commission of an offence, imprisonment up to 2 years, or fine, or both.
Key Elements
Providing false information to a public servant, knowing it to be false, and with the intent to deceive.
Punishment Details
Simple imprisonment for a term which may extend to six months, or with fine which may extend to one thousand rupees, or with both.
Legal Defenses
If the person can prove they genuinely believed the information was true.
Judicial Interpretation
Courts focus on whether the false information was provided intentionally.
Illustration
If a person provides a false address to the police during an investigation, they can be punished under Section 177.
FAQs
What does Section 177 IPC define?
Furnishing false information.
Where is Section 177 IPC applicable?
It applies to offences related to elections, public service duties, and lawful procedures.
Why is Section 177 IPC important?
It ensures fairness in elections, honesty in public dealings, and compliance with lawful summons.
Give an example involving Section 177 IPC.
Cases like election bribery, refusal to attend court after summons, or false statements under oath.
What punishment is applicable under Section 177 IPC?
Punishment varies from fines to imprisonment depending on the offence seriousness.
Are there related sections linked with Section 177 IPC?
Yes, it relates to public order, election integrity, and criminal procedure compliance.
How have courts interpreted Section 177 IPC?
Courts interpret strictly to protect democratic processes and ensure lawful public conduct.