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Section 251 — Offering gift or restoration of property in consideration of screening offender
251
251
Offering gift or restoration of property in consideration of screening offender
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
Obstruction Of JusticeBriberyChapter XIVModerate
🗣️ Simple Explanation
What does this law say? Section 251 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) deals with offering gifts or restoring property to someone to hide a crime or protect a criminal. You can't bribe someone to keep quiet or return stolen goods to help an offender escape punishment. This section replaces the old Section 214 of the IPC.
⚖️ Punishment

Imprisonment up to seven years, or fine, or both.

💡 Real Life Example

Rahul knows his friend Amit committed a theft. Rahul offers the victim money to drop the charges. This is against the law. Rahul could be arrested and face jail time and a fine.

Priya's neighbor, Sneha, is accused of a crime. Priya offers to pay off a witness to change their testimony. Priya has broken the law. She could be arrested and face jail time.

🛡️ KNOW YOUR RIGHTS
  • •Seek legal advice immediately if accused.
  • •Refuse to make any statements without a lawyer present.
  • •Understand the charges against you fully.
  • •Contact a lawyer through legal aid (Article 39A).
❓ FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Section 251 of the BNS makes it illegal to offer gifts or restore property to someone to conceal a crime or protect a criminal from punishment. This includes bribing witnesses or helping offenders escape justice. It aims to maintain the integrity of the legal process and ensure that criminals are held accountable for their actions.
The punishment depends on the original crime. If the original crime is punishable by death, you could face up to seven years in jail and a fine. If the original crime is punishable by life imprisonment or ten years, you could face up to three years in jail and a fine. If the original crime is punishable by less than ten years, you could face jail time and/or a fine.
Whether this is a bailable offense depends on the original crime. If the original crime is bailable, then this offense is likely bailable. However, the specifics depend on the nature of the original offense and the discretion of the court. You should consult with a lawyer for specific advice.
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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