IPC 171D: Personation at Elections in India

1. Code:

Section 171D of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) deals with the offense of personation at elections.

2. Explanation:

This section prohibits any person from impersonating another individual during an election to cast a vote or to influence the outcome of the election. It criminalizes the act of intentionally assuming the identity of another person to fraudulently participate in the electoral process.

3. Illustration:

Suppose a person named ‘A’ tries to vote in an election by falsely claiming to be ‘B’. ‘A’ presents a voter ID card with ‘B’s’ name and photograph. In this case, ‘A’ is committing the offense of personation under IPC 171D.

4. Common Questions and Answers:

Q: What is the punishment for violating IPC this section?

A: The punishment for personation at elections is imprisonment for up to one year, or a fine, or both.

Q: Does this apply only to voting?

A: No, IPC 171D covers any act of personation at elections, including attempting to influence the election by impersonating someone else.

Q: Can a person be charged under this section if they were not aware they were impersonating someone?

A: The law requires intent for the act to be considered an offense. If a person can prove they were not aware of impersonating someone, they may avoid charges.