BNS Section 173
What punishment does bribery carry under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita?
Short answer
Bribery can lead to up to one year in prison, a fine, or both, but if it involves treating, only a fine is imposed.
In detail
If a person is found guilty of bribery under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, the law allows the court to impose a prison term that may be as long as one year. The court may also order the offender to pay a monetary fine, or it can impose both imprisonment and a fine together. However, there is a special rule for a type of bribery called "treating," where the benefit given consists of food, drink, entertainment, or similar provisions. In cases of treating, the law limits the punishment to a fine only; no imprisonment can be ordered for that specific form of bribery. This means that while most bribery offences give the judge flexibility to choose between jail, a fine, or both, the treating exception restricts the penalty to a monetary sanction.
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
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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.