What is Section 211 IPC? False charge of offence made with intent to injure
Published on: Lawiz Team
Learn about Section 211 IPC: False charge of offence made with intent to injure
Official Legal Text
Whoever, with intent to cause injury to any person, institutes or causes to be instituted any criminal proceeding against that person, or falsely charges any person with having committed an offence, knowing that there is no just or lawful ground for such proceeding or charge against that person,
shall be punished with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to two years, or with fine, or with both;
And if such criminal proceeding be instituted on a false charge of an offence punishable with death, imprisonment for life, or imprisonment for a term of seven years or upwards, shall be punished with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to seven years, and shall also be liable to fine.
What This IPC Section Means – Explained in Simple Words
Section 211 punishes anyone who falsely charges another person with an offence, intending to harm them.
Purpose
To prevent false accusations that can harm the reputation, liberty, or life of an innocent person.
Bailable or Not Bailable & Punishment
Bailable: Non-Bailable, Punishment: Imprisonment up to 2 years, or fine, or both; If the false charge is of an offence punishable with death or life imprisonment, imprisonment up to 7 years and fine.
Key Elements
1. The person must make an accusation. 2. The accusation must be false. 3. The intention must be to harm the accused person.
Punishment Details
Imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to two years, or with fine, or with both. If the false charge is of an offence punishable with death or life imprisonment, the punishment may extend to seven years.
Legal Defenses
If the person can prove they genuinely believed the accusation to be true.
Judicial Interpretation
Courts focus on whether the charge was intentionally false and made to cause harm.
Illustration
If a person falsely accuses another of theft to settle a personal score, they can be punished under Section 211.
FAQs
What does Section 211 IPC define?
False charge of offence made with intent to injure.
Where is Section 211 IPC applicable?
It applies to criminal proceedings, obstruction of justice, or misuse of authority.
Why is Section 211 IPC significant?
It safeguards judicial processes, law enforcement, and accountability in the legal system.
Give an example involving Section 211 IPC.
Cases include aiding criminal escapes, offering bribes to screen offenders, or public servant misconduct.
What punishment is prescribed under Section 211 IPC?
Punishment ranges from simple to rigorous imprisonment, fines, or both depending on the offence.
Is Section 211 IPC linked with other IPC laws?
Yes, often related to offences against public justice, corruption, and custody breaches.
How do courts view Section 211 IPC?
Courts interpret such cases seriously to ensure deterrence against interfering with justice.