Section 214 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023 addresses the offense of refusing to answer questions posed by a public servant when an individual is legally obligated to provide truthful information. This section is part of Chapter XIII, which deals with Contempts of the Lawful Authority of Public Servants.
Key Provisions of Section 214 BNS
- Legal Obligation: The section stipulates that any person who is legally bound to state the truth on a subject must respond to questions from a public servant authorized to inquire about that matter.
- Punishment: If an individual refuses to answer such questions, they may face:
- Simple imprisonment for up to six months
- A fine of up to five thousand rupees
- Or both penalties
This provision mirrors Section 179 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), which similarly penalizes refusal to answer a public servant’s inquiries but imposes a lower fine limit of one thousand rupees.
Comparison with IPC
| Aspect | Section 214 BNS | Section 179 IPC |
|---|---|---|
| Legal Requirement | Legally bound to state the truth | Legally bound to state the truth |
| Punishment | Up to 6 months imprisonment or ₹5000 fine or both | Up to 6 months imprisonment or ₹1000 fine or both |
| Context | New Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 | Indian Penal Code, 1860 |
The introduction of Section 214 in the BNS represents an update and consolidation of legal standards regarding the obligation to respond truthfully to public inquiries, reflecting a commitment to uphold the authority of public servants in their duties.
Adv Ashish Sharma has dedicated his career to helping individuals and businesses navigate the intricate legal landscape with confidence. From providing expert advice on current legal issues to offering clear explanations of legal principles, he strives to empower his audience with knowledge and understanding.
