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Section 250 — Taking gift, etc., to screen an offender from punishment
250
250
Taking gift, etc., to screen an offender from punishment
Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023
Chapter XIV Of False Evidence and Offences Against Public Justice
⚖️
Reviewed by Advocate Aditi Babbar, Seasoned Advocate · Practicing since 31 years
📅 Updated 2026-04-10📚 Source: The Gazette of India
BriberyCorruptionObstruction Of JusticeSerious
🗣️ Simple Explanation
What does this law say? Section 250 of the BNS deals with taking a bribe to protect a criminal. If you accept money or anything else to hide a crime or help someone avoid punishment, you are breaking this law.
Why does this law exist? This law prevents corruption and protects the justice system. It ensures that people cannot buy their way out of punishment. It supports fair legal processes.
Real-life impact Imagine someone offering you money to not report a crime. This law makes it illegal. It ensures that criminals face the law.
What happens if you break this law? The punishment depends on the crime the offender committed. If the crime is punishable by death, you could go to jail for up to seven years. If the crime is punishable by life imprisonment, you could go to jail for up to three years. The police can arrest you without a warrant.
⚖️ Punishment

Imprisonment up to seven years, three years, or one-fourth of the original crime's sentence, depending on the original crime, or fine, or both.

💡 Real Life Example

Rahul accepts money to hide evidence of a crime. This is a violation of Section 250. He could face jail time and a fine.

Priya agrees to not report a crime in exchange for a gift. This is also covered under Section 250. She could be punished.

🛡️ KNOW YOUR RIGHTS
  • •Consult a lawyer immediately if accused of taking a bribe to protect a criminal.
  • •Refuse any offers of money or gifts to conceal a crime.
  • •Report any attempts to bribe you to the police.
  • •Understand the charges against you and the potential penalties.
❓ FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Section 250 of the BNS addresses taking a bribe to protect a criminal. If you accept money or anything else to hide a crime or help someone avoid punishment, you are breaking this law. This section replaces the old law. It aims to prevent corruption and protect the justice system. It ensures that people cannot buy their way out of punishment.
No, the police can arrest you without a warrant. The punishment depends on the crime the offender committed. If the crime is punishable by death, you could go to jail for up to seven years. If the crime is punishable by life imprisonment, you could go to jail for up to three years.
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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