BNS Section 182 - False Information to Public Servant
Whoever gives to any public servant any information which he knows or believes to be false, intending thereby to cause, or knowing it to be likely that he will thereby cause, such public servant to do or omit to do anything which such public servant ought not to do or omit to do if the true state of facts respecting which such information is given were known by him.
Official Text
“Whoever gives to any public servant any information which he knows or believes to be false, intending thereby to cause, or knowing it to be likely that he will thereby cause, such public servant to do or omit to do anything which such public servant ought not to do or omit to do if the true state of facts respecting which such information is given were known by him.”
Legal Analysis
Elements to Prove:
- Giving false information.
- To public servant.
- With intent to cause wrongful act.
Potential Defenses:
- Information was true.
- No intent to mislead.
- Good faith mistake.
Practical Examples
What Constitutes the Offense:
Filing false police reports, providing fake documents to officials, making false complaints.
What Doesn't Constitute:
Mistaken information, good faith reports, or honest errors.
Punishment
Imprisonment up to 6 months, or Fine up to ₹1,000, or both