BNS Section 204
What is the punishment for pretending to be a public servant?
Short answer
The offence is punishable by at least six months’ imprisonment, up to three years, and a fine.
In detail
If a person knowingly pretends to hold any public office they do not actually hold, or falsely claims to be someone who does, and then does or tries to do any act as if they were that official, the law treats this as a crime. The same applies when someone wears a uniform or carries a token that belongs to a public servant with the intention to deceive. The punishment prescribed is imprisonment for a period not less than six months and not more than three years, along with a monetary fine. The provision aims to stop people from abusing the authority and trust associated with public offices by using false identities or symbols.
Related questions
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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.