BNS Section 218
What can happen if I resist a public servant taking my property?
Short answer
You may be sentenced to up to six months in jail, fined up to ₹10,000, or both.
In detail
If you oppose or try to stop a public servant who is lawfully taking any of your property, and you know or have reason to believe that the person is a public servant, the law treats this as an offence. The punishment for such resistance is a term of imprisonment that can last for as long as six months, a monetary fine that can go up to ten thousand rupees, or a combination of both jail time and fine. The provision applies to any kind of property and to any public servant acting within their legal authority. The key factor is the knowledge or belief that the person you are resisting is a public servant. This rule is intended to ensure that lawful actions by officials are not obstructed by force or intimidation.
Related questions
What actions are defined as 'hurt' under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita?
Hurt means causing bodily pain, disease, or infirmity to any person.
Can a husband be forced to financially support his wife, children, or parents if he refuses?
Yes, a magistrate can order him to pay a monthly allowance and enforce it with fines or up to one month in jail.
If I accidentally hurt a consenting adult during a game, can I be criminally liable?
No, you are not criminally liable if the act was not intended to cause death or serious injury and the adult gave consent.
Can I defend myself even if it might harm a child nearby?
Yes, the law permits you to use private defence even if it risks harming an innocent person during a deadly assault.
People also ask
- What counts as lawful authority of a public servant under this Act?
- Is consent required for a public servant to take property?
- Can the fine be higher than ₹10,000 for this offence?
Not legal advice. This is general legal information, not legal advice. Laws change and every case turns on its own facts — speak to a lawyer about your situation.