IPC 199 vs BNS 199 – False Statements in Declarations
Indian Penal Code (IPC)
Bhartiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS)
Section: IPC 199
False statement made in declaration which is by law receivable as evidence
About IPC Section
Section 199 of the Indian Penal Code, 1860, deals with false declarations. It specifically targets individuals who make false statements in declarations, affidavits, or other formal documents, which are admissible as evidence under the law. This section ensures that documents presented in judicial or administrative settings remain truthful and reliable.
Key provisions:
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If a declaration, affidavit, or statement is legally receivable as evidence, making any false statement therein, which the person knows or believes to be false, is punishable.
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The punishment is the same as if the person had given false evidence in court (refer IPC 193).
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Example: Submitting a false affidavit in a property dispute case or making a false statement in a declaration of income for tax purposes.
This provision aims to maintain the sanctity of documentary evidence and prevent people from manipulating the judicial process or administrative decisions through false declarations.
Section: BNS 199
False statement made in declaration which is by law receivable as evidence
About BNS Section
Section 199 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, is a continuation of IPC 199 with no major substantive changes. It penalizes the act of making false statements in declarations or affidavits that are admissible as evidence under law.
Key provisions:
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Any person who makes a declaration or statement that is receivable as evidence, knowing it to be false, shall be punished in the same way as for giving false evidence (BNS 193).
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Punishment includes imprisonment and fine, varying with the seriousness of the case.
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Example: A person filing a false affidavit in court regarding their assets during a divorce proceeding, or submitting a false income declaration to claim government subsidies.
By retaining this section, BNS ensures that affidavits and declarations remain trustworthy and reinforces accountability for dishonesty in judicial and legal documentation.