IPC 220 vs BNS 220
● Retained in BNSPublic servant unlawfully buying or bidding for property
Section 220 of the Indian Penal Code, 1860, deals with public servants who unlawfully purchase or bid for property under their official control, intending to gain personal advantage. This section ensures that officials do not misuse their position to acquire property at the expense of others or through unfair advantage.
Key aspects:
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Applies only to public servants.
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The offence involves buying, bidding, or acquiring property contrary to legal restrictions.
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Punishment: Imprisonment up to 1 year, or fine, or both.
Example: A government officer participates in an auction of seized property they supervise, to gain a personal benefit. IPC 220 ensures fairness and impartiality in transactions involving public officials.
Public servant unlawfully buying or bidding for property
Section 220 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, mirrors IPC 220. It punishes public servants who illegally buy or bid for property under their official oversight, intending to secure personal gain.
Key aspects:
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Applies exclusively to public officials.
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Punishment remains: Imprisonment up to 1 year, or fine, or both.
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Example: A customs officer illegally purchasing seized goods at auction they supervise.
BNS 220 reinforces transparency and fairness in property dealings involving public servants, ensuring that their official position is not exploited.
What changed?
This provision was carried over to the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita with substantially the same wording — the section was renumbered from IPC IPC 220 to BNS BNS 220.