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Section 210 — Omission to Produce document or electronic record to public servant by person legally bound to produce it
210
210
Omission to Produce document or electronic record to public servant by person legally bound to produce it
Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023
Chapter XIII Of Contempts of The Lawful Authority of Public Servants
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Reviewed by Advocate Aditi Babbar, Seasoned Advocate · Practicing since 31 years
📅 Updated 2026-04-10📚 Source: The Gazette of India
Contempt Of CourtLegal ProceedingsMinor Offence
🗣️ Simple Explanation
What does this law say? Section 210 of the BNS makes it a crime to not provide a document or electronic record when you are legally required to. This section replaces the old Section 175 of IPC.
Why does this law exist? This law ensures people cooperate with legal requests for documents. It helps the courts and government have the information they need. It ensures fairness.
Real-life impact Imagine you are asked to provide bank statements for a case. If you refuse, you break this law. This also applies to other documents. It ensures people provide necessary information.
What happens if you break this law? You could get simple imprisonment for up to one month. You might also have to pay a fine of up to five thousand rupees. If the document is for a court, the jail time can extend to six months, and the fine can be up to ten thousand rupees. Police can arrest without warrant.
⚖️ Punishment

Imprisonment up to six months, or fine up to ten thousand rupees, or both.

💡 Real Life Example

Rahul was asked to provide his phone records in a society dispute. He refused. This is against the law. He could face jail time and a fine.

Priya was asked to provide documents in an Instagram scam case. She didn't. This is also against the law. She could be arrested and face penalties.

🛡️ KNOW YOUR RIGHTS
  • •Understand what documents are requested.
  • •Seek legal advice if you are unsure.
  • •Provide the documents as required.
  • •Contact a lawyer if you are accused of a crime. You have the right to legal aid.
❓ FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Section 210 of the BNS makes it illegal to not provide a document or electronic record when you are legally required to. The law ensures people cooperate with legal requests for documents. It helps the courts and government have the information they need.
Yes, the offences under this section are bailable. This means you can be released on bail. However, the police can still arrest you without a warrant. You should seek legal advice immediately if you are accused of this crime.
Sources & References

📒 Legal text sourced from The Gazette of India & AdvocateKhoj Bare Acts Library

⚖️ Content reviewed by Advocate Aditi Babbar, Seasoned Advocate, with 31 years of legal practice

📚 Act Reference: Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 (replaces IPC)

Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a qualified advocate for specific legal matters.

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