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Section 217 — False information, with intent to cause public servant to use his lawful power to injury of another person
217
217
False information, with intent to cause public servant to use his lawful power to injury of another person
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
False InformationPublic ServantHarassmentFalse AccusationMinor
🗣️ Simple Explanation
What does this law say? Section 217 of the BNS addresses giving false information to a public servant to harm someone. If you give false information to the police or other officials, intending to cause harm or annoyance to another person, you are breaking the law.
Why does this law exist? This law prevents people from misusing public servants. It protects individuals from being wrongly targeted. It ensures that public servants act on accurate information.
Real-life impact This law affects how people interact with the police and other government officials. It prevents false accusations. It protects people from harassment by those who misuse the system.
What happens if you break this law? You could be sent to jail for up to one year. You may also have to pay a fine of up to ten thousand rupees. The police can arrest you without a warrant.
⚖️ Punishment

Imprisonment up to one year, or fine up to ten thousand rupees, or both.

💡 Real Life Example

Amit falsely accuses his neighbor of a crime to the police, hoping to get him arrested. This is a violation of Section 217. He could face jail time and a fine.
Priya gives false information to a government official to get her rival's business shut down. This is also a violation of Section 217. She could face imprisonment and a fine.

🛡️ KNOW YOUR RIGHTS
  • •Be truthful when providing information to public servants.
  • •Seek legal advice if you are accused of giving false information.
  • •You have the right to remain silent.
  • •Report any false accusations against you to the authorities.
❓ FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Section 217 of the BNS deals with providing false information to a public servant with the intention of causing harm or annoyance to another person. This includes giving false information to the police or other officials. This section replaces the old law.
The punishment for giving false information under Section 217 of the BNS can be imprisonment for up to one year. You may also have to pay a fine of up to ten thousand rupees. The police can arrest you without a warrant. The severity depends on the harm caused.
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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