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IPC 191 vs BNS 191 – Giving False Evidence Explained

Comparison
Same

Indian Penal Code (IPC)

VS.

Bhartiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS)

Section: IPC 191

Giving false evidence

About IPC Section

Section 191 of the Indian Penal Code, 1860, defines and penalizes the act of giving false evidence. This provision is a cornerstone of criminal justice as it safeguards the integrity of judicial and administrative proceedings.

Key points of IPC 191:

  • A person is said to give false evidence if they intentionally make a false statement under oath or legally bound declaration, which they know or believe to be false.

  • Applies in courts, inquiries, affidavits, or any legally binding testimony.

  • False evidence is considered perjury, a serious offence that can mislead courts and obstruct justice.

  • Punishment for false evidence is provided in subsequent sections, such as IPC 193.

For example, if a witness deliberately lies in court during cross-examination, it amounts to giving false evidence under IPC 191.

This section ensures truthfulness and reliability of testimonies, protecting the justice system from being undermined by falsehood.

Section: BNS 191

Giving false evidence

About BNS Section

Section 191 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, retains the same definition as IPC 191 regarding giving false evidence. It continues to criminalize false statements made under legal obligation, thereby upholding the credibility of judicial and administrative proceedings.

Key points of BNS 191:

  • A person gives false evidence if they intentionally make a false statement under oath, affidavit, or any lawful declaration.

  • Applicable in courts, inquiries, or proceedings requiring truthful statements.

  • Like IPC 191, the punishment for this act is dealt with in later provisions (similar to BNS 193).

  • The section reinforces the principle that justice relies on truth and honesty.

For instance, filing a false affidavit in a civil suit or lying under oath in a criminal trial falls within BNS 191.

This provision ensures judicial integrity, fairness, and accountability, preventing misuse of legal processes through falsehood.