What is Section 204 IPC? Destruction of document or electronic record to prevent its production as evidence
Published on: Lawiz Team
Learn about Section 204 IPC: Destruction of document or electronic record to prevent its production as evidence
Official Legal Text
Whoever secretes or destroys any document or electronic record which he may be lawfully compelled to produce as evidence in a Court of Justice, or in any proceeding lawfully held before a public servant, as such, or obliterates or renders illegible the whole or any part of such document or electronic record with the intention of preventing the same from being produced or used as evidence,
shall be punished with imprisonment of either description 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 204 punishes anyone who destroys or hides a document or electronic record to prevent it from being used as evidence.
Purpose
To maintain the integrity of evidence in legal proceedings.
Bailable or Not Bailable & Punishment
Bailable: Bailable, Punishment: Imprisonment up to 2 years, or fine, or both.
Key Elements
1. The person must destroy, conceal, or alter a document or electronic record. 2. The intention must be to prevent it from being used as evidence.
Punishment Details
Imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to two years, or with fine, or with both.
Legal Defenses
If the person can prove they were unaware of the document's relevance as evidence.
Judicial Interpretation
Courts focus on the intention behind destroying or concealing the document.
Illustration
If a person deletes emails to hide evidence of fraud, they can be punished under Section 204.
FAQs
What does Section 204 IPC define?
Destruction of document or electronic record to prevent its production as evidence.
Where is Section 204 IPC commonly applicable?
It applies in cases involving destruction of document or electronic record to prevent its production as evidence during court proceedings or investigations.
Why is Section 204 IPC important?
It ensures judicial integrity and punishes fraudulent and misleading actions related to justice.
Can you provide an example involving Section 204 IPC?
Examples include destroying evidence or fraudulently making a false claim in court.
What punishment is prescribed under Section 204 IPC?
Punishments vary but usually include imprisonment, fines, or both.
Is Section 204 IPC related to other sections?
Yes, it is connected with sections dealing with evidence, obstruction, fraud, and court offences.
How do courts interpret Section 204 IPC?
Courts interpret strictly to prevent obstruction of justice and fraudulent behavior in legal processes.