BNS Section 257 - Extortion by Threat of Accusation of Offence

Whoever commits extortion by putting any person in fear of an accusation, having been made, against that person or any other, of having committed or attempted to commit an offence punishable with death or with imprisonment for life, or with imprisonment for a term which may extend to ten years.

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Non-bailable, Cognizable

Official Text

“Whoever commits extortion by putting any person in fear of an accusation, having been made, against that person or any other, of having committed or attempted to commit an offence punishable with death or with imprisonment for life, or with imprisonment for a term which may extend to ten years.”

Legal Analysis

Elements to Prove:

  • Committing extortion.
  • Fear of accusation.
  • Accusation of serious offence.
  • Dishonest inducement.

Potential Defenses:

  • No fear of accusation.
  • Legitimate accusation.
  • Authorized charges.

Practical Examples

What Constitutes the Offense:

Threatening false accusations, blackmail through criminal charges.

What Doesn't Constitute:

Legitimate accusations, lawful reporting, or authorized charges.

Punishment

Imprisonment up to 10 years, and Fine

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