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Section 220 — Illegal purchase or bid for property offered for sale by authority of public servant
220
220
Illegal purchase or bid for property offered for sale by authority of public servant
Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023
Chapter XIII Of Contempts of The Lawful Authority of Public Servants
⚖️
Reviewed by Advocate Aditi Babbar, Seasoned Advocate · Practicing since 31 years
📅 Updated 2026-04-10📚 Source: The Gazette of India
Illegal BiddingProperty SaleFraudLegal IncapacityMinor
🗣️ Simple Explanation
What does this law say? Section 220 of the BNS deals with illegal bidding or purchasing at a property sale by a public servant. If you bid on behalf of someone who cannot legally buy the property, or if you don't intend to fulfill your bidding obligations, you are breaking the law.
Why does this law exist? This law ensures fairness in property sales. It prevents fraud and protects the integrity of the bidding process. It ensures that only eligible people can buy property.
Real-life impact This law affects auctions and property sales. It prevents people from manipulating the bidding process. It ensures that the sales are conducted fairly.
What happens if you break this law? You could be sent to jail for up to one month. You may also have to pay a fine of up to two hundred rupees. The police can arrest you without a warrant.
⚖️ Punishment

Imprisonment up to one month, or fine up to two hundred rupees, or both.

💡 Real Life Example

Amit bids on a property at an auction on behalf of his friend, who is legally barred from buying it. This is a violation of Section 220. He could face jail time and a fine.
Sneha bids on a property at an auction but does not intend to pay if she wins. This is also a violation of Section 220. She could face imprisonment and a fine.

🛡️ KNOW YOUR RIGHTS
  • •Only bid if you are legally eligible.
  • •Ensure you can fulfill the obligations of the bid.
  • •Seek legal advice if you are unsure about your eligibility.
  • •Report any suspicious bidding activities.
❓ FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Section 220 of the BNS addresses illegal bidding or purchasing at a property sale conducted by a public servant. This includes bidding on behalf of someone who is not eligible or bidding without the intention to fulfill the obligations. This section replaces the old law.
The punishment for illegal bidding under Section 220 of the BNS can be imprisonment for up to one month. You may also have to pay a fine of up to two hundred rupees. The police can arrest you without a warrant.
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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