Official Text
“Whoever, being a public servant, witnesses any document knowing it to be false or forged, shall be punished.”
Legal Analysis
Elements to Prove:
- Being public servant.
- Witnessing document.
- Knowing it to be false or forged.
Potential Defenses:
- Not a public servant.
- No false witnessing.
- Legitimate witnessing.
Practical Examples
What Constitutes the Offense:
Government officials witnessing fake documents, public servants attesting to forged papers, officials validating false instruments.
What Doesn't Constitute:
Legitimate witnessing, authorized attestation, or lawful validation.
Punishment
Imprisonment up to 2 years, or Fine, or both