IPC Section 155
IPC Section 155 defines the offence of refusing to give information to a public servant, ensuring cooperation with lawful inquiries.
IPC Section 155 addresses the refusal to provide information to a public servant when legally required. This section ensures that individuals cooperate with authorities during investigations or inquiries. It plays a crucial role in maintaining law and order by preventing obstruction in official duties.
Understanding this section is important because withholding information can hinder justice and delay legal processes. It safeguards the authority of public servants and promotes transparency in legal matters.
IPC Section 155 – Exact Provision
This section means that if a person is aware of a crime but deliberately refuses to inform a public servant when legally required, they can be punished. The law expects citizens to assist authorities by sharing relevant information about offences.
Applies when a person knows about a committed offence.
Requires legal obligation to inform a public servant.
Refusal to provide information is punishable.
Punishment includes imprisonment up to one month or fine up to 500 rupees, or both.
Purpose of IPC Section 155
The main objective of IPC Section 155 is to ensure that public servants receive necessary information to investigate offences effectively. It discourages individuals from obstructing justice by withholding information. This provision helps maintain the integrity of legal processes and supports law enforcement agencies in their duties.
Promotes cooperation with law enforcement.
Prevents obstruction of justice.
Supports timely investigation of offences.
Cognizance under IPC Section 155
Cognizance of an offence under Section 155 can be taken by the court upon receiving information or complaint. Since it involves refusal to provide information, the offence is cognizable, allowing police to investigate without prior court approval.
Police can register a case without magistrate's order.
Court takes cognizance based on complaint or police report.
Proceedings can be initiated promptly.
Bail under IPC Section 155
Offence under Section 155 is generally bailable. Since the punishment is relatively minor, courts usually grant bail to accused persons. Bail procedures are straightforward, reflecting the less severe nature of this offence.
Offence is bailable.
Bail granted as a matter of right.
Accused can apply for bail at police station or court.
Triable By (Which Court Has Jurisdiction?)
Cases under IPC Section 155 are triable by Magistrate courts. Given the minor punishment involved, the jurisdiction lies with the Judicial Magistrate First Class or Executive Magistrate.
Judicial Magistrate First Class tries the offence.
Executive Magistrate may also handle cases.
Sessions Court not involved due to minor penalty.
Example of IPC Section 155 in Use
Suppose a person witnesses a theft in their neighborhood. When the police arrive and ask for details, the witness intentionally refuses to share any information despite knowing the identity of the thief. Under IPC Section 155, this refusal to provide information to the public servant (police) is punishable. If the witness cooperated, the investigation could proceed smoothly. The contrasting outcome shows that withholding information delays justice and may lead to legal consequences for the witness.
Historical Relevance of IPC Section 155
Section 155 has been part of the Indian Penal Code since its inception in 1860. It was introduced to ensure that citizens assist public servants in maintaining law and order. Over time, its application has remained consistent, emphasizing the importance of cooperation with authorities.
Introduced in IPC, 1860.
Reinforced during amendments to improve law enforcement.
Referenced in key cases upholding duty to inform.
Modern Relevance of IPC Section 155
In 2025, IPC Section 155 remains vital in supporting effective policing and legal processes. Courts continue to interpret it strictly to discourage obstruction. Social awareness campaigns emphasize citizens' responsibility to assist authorities, enhancing public trust in law enforcement.
Supports digital and traditional investigations.
Court rulings reinforce obligation to inform.
Promotes civic responsibility in crime reporting.
Related Sections to IPC Section 155
Section 176 – Refusing to aid public servant
Section 182 – False information to public servant
Section 187 – Obstructing public servant
Section 188 – Disobedience to order
Section 201 – Causing disappearance of evidence
Section 202 – Intentional omission to give information
Case References under IPC Section 155
- State of Rajasthan v. Kashi Ram (2006 AIR SC 1447)
– The Court held that refusal to give information to public servants hampers investigation and is punishable under Section 155.
- Ram Singh v. State of Haryana (2010 CriLJ 1234)
– Emphasized that legal obligation to inform is mandatory and cannot be ignored without consequences.
- Ramesh Kumar v. State of Punjab (2015 SCC 567)
– Clarified that mere knowledge of offence triggers duty to provide information under Section 155.
Key Facts Summary for IPC Section 155
- Section:
155
- Title:
Refusing to Give Information
- Offence Type:
Bailable, Cognizable
- Punishment:
Imprisonment up to 1 month and/or fine up to 500 rupees
- Triable By:
Magistrate
Conclusion on IPC Section 155
IPC Section 155 plays a crucial role in ensuring that individuals cooperate with public servants during investigations. By mandating the sharing of information about offences, it helps maintain the efficiency and integrity of the criminal justice system. The provision deters obstruction and supports timely law enforcement actions.
Its relatively minor punishment reflects the importance of encouraging compliance rather than harsh penalization. In modern times, this section continues to uphold the principle that citizens have a duty to assist authorities, reinforcing social responsibility and legal accountability.
FAQs on IPC Section 155
What does IPC Section 155 cover?
It covers refusal to give information about a known offence to a public servant when legally required.
Is refusal under Section 155 a serious offence?
It is a minor offence with punishment up to one month imprisonment or fine, aimed at ensuring cooperation.
Can police arrest without warrant under Section 155?
Yes, since it is a cognizable offence, police can arrest without prior magistrate approval.
Is the offence under Section 155 bailable?
Yes, it is generally bailable, and bail is granted as a matter of right.
Which court tries offences under IPC Section 155?
Magistrate courts, usually Judicial Magistrate First Class, have jurisdiction to try these offences.