IPC Section 186 — Obstructing public servant in discharge of public functions

contempt's the lawful authority public servants

Criminal

Punishment

Imprisonment up to 3 months, or fine up to ₹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 five hundred rupees, or with both”

Summary

This section makes it an offence to intentionally block or hinder a government official while they are doing their official duties. The punishment for this can be imprisonment for up to three months, a fine of up to 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 five hundred rupees, or with both.

Referred to by

Tamil Nadu Prohibition Act §41 — Procedure in case of default of person admitted to bail to appear before Prohibition Officer

Related Judgments

DEVENDRA KUMAR vs THE STATE (NCT OF DELHI) & ANR — Supreme Court of India (2025)
SANTOSH KUMAR JAIN vs THE STATE — Supreme Court of India (1951)
UMASHANKAR YADAV & ANR. vs STATE OF UTTAR PRADESH, THROUGH CHIEF SECRETARY & ANR — Supreme Court of India (2025)
B.N. JOHN vs STATE OF U.P. & ANR — Supreme Court of India (2025)
DURGACHARAN NAIK AND ORS. vs STATE OF ORISSA — Supreme Court of India (1966)
MAHENDRA KUMAR SONKER vs THE STATE OF MADHYA PRADESH — Supreme Court of India (2024)

Old <-> New Code Mapping

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