IPC Section 186 - Obstructing Public Servant in Discharge of His Public Functions

Whoever voluntarily obstructs any public servant in the discharge of his public functions, or voluntarily furnishes any false information to any public servant, and thereby causes, or tends to cause, any injury to any person, or causes, or tends to cause, such public servant to use his lawful power to the injury of any person, shall be punished with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to three months, or with fine which may extend to five hundred rupees, or with both.

Share:
Bailable, Non-cognizable

Official Text

“Whoever voluntarily obstructs any public servant in the discharge of his public functions, or voluntarily furnishes any false information to any public servant, and thereby causes, or tends to cause, any injury to any person, or causes, or tends to cause, such public servant to use his lawful power to the injury of any person, shall be punished with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to three months, or with fine which may extend to five hundred rupees, or with both.”

Legal Analysis

Elements to Prove:

  • The accused voluntarily obstructed a public servant.
  • The obstruction was in discharge of public functions.
  • The obstruction caused or tended to cause injury.
  • The obstruction was intentional and not accidental.

Potential Defenses:

  • The obstruction was not voluntary.
  • No public functions were being discharged.
  • No injury was caused or likely.
  • The accused had a legal right to act.

Practical Examples

What Constitutes the Offense:

A person blocking a police officer from entering a building, or providing false information that causes harassment.

What Doesn't Constitute:

A person accidentally getting in the way, or making a genuine complaint.

Important Case Laws

State of Maharashtra v. Dr. Anil Vasantrao Deshmukh (2021)

The Supreme Court held that this section applies to voluntary obstruction of public servants in their official duties.

Punishment

Imprisonment for up to 3 months, or Fine up to ₹500, or both

Related Information

Connected Sections:

This section deals with obstruction of public servants. It is often charged alongside other obstruction offenses.

Procedural Aspects:

No government sanction is required. The case is triable by any Magistrate.

← Back to Indian Penal Code