BNS Section 221 — Obstructing public servant in discharge of public functions

CHAPTER XIII OF CONTEMPTS OF THE LAWFUL AUTHORITY OF PUBLIC SERVANTS

Criminal

Punishment

Imprisonment up to 3 months, or fine up to ₹2,500, or both

As the section puts it: “shall be punished with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to three months, or with fine which may extend to two thousand and five hundred rupees, or with both”

Summary

Whoever deliberately blocks or hinders a public servant while that servant is carrying out their official duties commits an offence under this section. The punishment for this act is imprisonment of either kind for up to three months, or a fine of up to two thousand five hundred rupees, or both.

Official Text

Whoever voluntarily obstructs any public servant in the discharge of his public functions, shall be punished with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to three months, or with fine which may extend to two thousand and five hundred rupees, or with both.

Related Judgments

  • SOM SINGH vs STATE GOVT. OF NCT OF DELHI — Delhi High Court (2025)
  • 1.S.Anandavalli; 2.M.Devi vs 1.The State of Tamil Nadu rep. by, The Inspector of Police,, Sivaganga — Madras High Court (Madurai Bench) (2025)
  • A.Shankar @ Savukku Shankar; ... vs State rep. by:-, The Inspector of Police, Land Fraud Investigation Win — Madras High Court (Principal Bench, Chennai) (2025)
  • Syed Burkanudeen vs 1.State of Tamil Nadu represented by, The Inspector of Police,, Vaniya — Madras High Court (Principal Bench, Chennai) (2025)

Old <-> New Code Mapping

  • IPC §186 — Obstructing public servant in discharge of public functions