BNS Section 224
What is the punishment for threatening a public servant to influence their actions?
Short answer
The offence is punishable by up to two years imprisonment, a fine, or both.
In detail
The law says that if anyone makes a threat of injury against a public servant, or against someone the servant cares about, with the aim of making that servant do something, or stop doing something, as part of their official duties, that person commits an offence. The threat must be intended to influence the servant’s actions related to their public role. The punishment for this offence can be a prison term of up to two years, a monetary fine, or both, at the court’s discretion. The provision does not require that the threatened injury actually happen; the mere making of the threat for the described purpose is enough for liability. This rule applies equally whether the threat is directed at the servant themselves or at a person the servant is believed to be interested in. The court may decide the exact fine or length of imprisonment based on the circumstances of each case.
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.
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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.