IPC Section 202 — Intentional omission to give information of offence by person bound to inform

false evidence and offences against public justice

Criminal

Punishment

Imprisonment up to 6 months, or fine, or both

As the section puts it: “shall be punished with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to six months, or with fine, or with both”

Summary

If you know or have reason to believe that a crime has happened, and you are legally required to report it, but you deliberately choose not to give that information, you can be punished. The punishment can be imprisonment for up to six months, a fine, or both.

Official Text

Whoever, knowing or having reason to believe that an offence has been committed, intentionally omits to give any information respecting that offence which he is legally bound to give, shall be punished with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to six months, or with fine, or with both.

Related Judgments

  • The State of Maharashtra vs Nazir Javed Khan & Ors — Bombay High Court (Mumbai Principal Seat) (2019)
  • BHAGWAN SWARUP AND ANR. vs STATE OF RAJASTHAN — Supreme Court of India (1991)
  • VIKAS CHANDRA vs STATE OF UTTAR PRADESH & ANR — Supreme Court of India (2024)

Old <-> New Code Mapping

  • BNS §239 — Intentional omission to give information of offence by person bound to inform