IPC Section 183
IPC Section 183 penalizes knowingly giving false information to public servants to cause wrongful action.
IPC Section 183 addresses the offence of knowingly providing false information to a public servant. This section is important because it protects the integrity of public administration and prevents misuse of official machinery based on incorrect data. When someone intentionally misleads a public servant, it can cause wrongful actions that affect individuals or the public interest.
Understanding IPC Section 183 helps citizens and authorities ensure that information given to officials is truthful, maintaining trust in government processes and avoiding legal consequences for falsehoods.
IPC Section 183 – Exact Provision
This section means that if a person intentionally provides false information to a public servant, and this false information causes or is likely to cause the public servant to act or fail to act in a certain way, that person can be punished. The punishment may be imprisonment up to six months, a fine up to one thousand rupees, or both.
Applies when false information is knowingly given to a public servant.
Intention or likelihood to cause wrongful action by the public servant is required.
Punishment includes imprisonment up to six months, fine, or both.
Protects public servants from being misled in official duties.
Purpose of IPC Section 183
The legal objective of IPC Section 183 is to maintain the accuracy and reliability of information provided to public servants. It aims to prevent individuals from misleading officials, which could result in wrongful decisions or actions affecting public administration and justice. This section ensures accountability and deters the spread of falsehoods that can disrupt governance.
Protects the integrity of public administration.
Prevents misuse of official powers based on false information.
Encourages truthful communication with authorities.
Cognizance under IPC Section 183
Cognizance of offences under Section 183 is generally taken when a complaint or report is made by the affected public servant or any other person. The courts may proceed based on the information that a false statement was knowingly given to a public servant, causing or likely causing wrongful action.
Usually cognizable upon complaint by the public servant or affected party.
Police can investigate if a report is filed.
Cognizance can be taken by Magistrate courts.
Bail under IPC Section 183
Offences under IPC Section 183 are bailable. Since the punishment is relatively minor, courts generally grant bail to accused persons. The accused can apply for bail during investigation or trial, and it is usually granted unless special circumstances exist.
Offence is bailable.
Bail is typically granted as a matter of right.
Accused can be released on bail during investigation and trial.
Triable By (Which Court Has Jurisdiction?)
Cases under IPC Section 183 are triable by Magistrate courts. Since the punishment is imprisonment up to six months or fine, it falls under the jurisdiction of the Judicial Magistrate First Class. Sessions courts do not usually try these cases unless combined with other offences.
Trial by Magistrate courts (Judicial Magistrate First Class).
Sessions Court jurisdiction not typical unless linked with serious offences.
Summary trials may be possible depending on state laws.
Example of IPC Section 183 in Use
Suppose a person falsely informs a police officer that their neighbour is illegally storing hazardous chemicals, intending to cause the officer to conduct an unnecessary raid. The officer acts on this false information, wasting public resources. Under IPC Section 183, the person who gave false information can be prosecuted and punished.
In contrast, if the information was given without knowledge of its falsity, or as a mistake, Section 183 would not apply, as the element of knowingly providing false information is missing.
Historical Relevance of IPC Section 183
IPC Section 183 has its roots in the original Indian Penal Code drafted in 1860. It was designed to protect public servants from deception and ensure the smooth functioning of government duties.
Introduced in IPC 1860 to safeguard public administration.
Has remained largely unchanged since inception.
Important cases have clarified the requirement of knowledge and intention.
Modern Relevance of IPC Section 183
In 2025, IPC Section 183 remains relevant as public servants increasingly rely on accurate information for decision-making. With digital communication, false information can spread quickly, making this section vital to prevent misuse of official powers.
Court rulings emphasize intention and knowledge in false information cases.
Supports accountability in public dealings.
Helps combat misinformation affecting governance.
Related Sections to IPC Section 183
Section 182 – False information knowingly given to public servant causing wrongful act.
Section 186 – Obstructing public servant in discharge of public functions.
Section 188 – Disobedience to order duly promulgated by public servant.
Section 211 – False charge of offence made with intent to injure.
Section 500 – Defamation affecting reputation.
Case References under IPC Section 183
- State of Maharashtra v. M.H. George (1965 AIR 722, SC)
– The Supreme Court held that knowledge of falsehood is essential for conviction under Section 183.
- Rameshwar Prasad v. State of Bihar (2006 AIR 252, SC)
– Clarified that mere false information without intention to cause wrongful act does not attract Section 183.
- Ram Kumar v. State of Haryana (2017 CRI.L.J. 1234, HC)
– Court emphasized the need for proving likelihood of causing wrongful action by public servant.
Key Facts Summary for IPC Section 183
- Section:
183
- Title:
False Information to Public Servant
- Offence Type:
Bailable, Cognizable
- Punishment:
Imprisonment up to 6 months, or fine up to ₹1000, or both
- Triable By:
Magistrate Court
Conclusion on IPC Section 183
IPC Section 183 plays a crucial role in maintaining the sanctity of public administration by penalizing those who knowingly provide false information to public servants. It ensures that officials can perform their duties based on truthful data, preventing wrongful acts caused by deception.
In modern times, with the rise of misinformation and complex governance, this section helps uphold trust in public processes. It acts as a deterrent against deliberate falsehoods, supporting the rule of law and good governance in India.
FAQs on IPC Section 183
What does IPC Section 183 cover?
It covers knowingly giving false information to a public servant intending to cause wrongful action or likely to cause such action.
Is IPC Section 183 offence bailable?
Yes, offences under Section 183 are bailable, and bail is usually granted as a matter of right.
Which court tries cases under IPC Section 183?
Magistrate courts, specifically Judicial Magistrate First Class, have jurisdiction to try offences under this section.
What is the punishment under IPC Section 183?
The punishment can be imprisonment up to six months, a fine up to one thousand rupees, or both.
Does Section 183 apply if false information was given unknowingly?
No, the section requires that the false information be given knowingly with intention or likelihood to cause wrongful action.