IPC Section 170: Personating a Public Servant in India
1. Code
Section 170. Whoever, with intent to deceive, personates a public servant or falsely pretends to be a public servant, shall be punished with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to three years, or with fine, or with both.
2. Explanation
This section of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) criminalizes the act of impersonating a public servant with the intention to deceive. The offense applies to individuals who:
- Represent themselves as a public servant when they are not.
- Falsely claim to hold a specific public office.
- Utilize the authority or position of a public servant to gain an advantage or mislead others.
3. Illustration
Consider a scenario where an individual approaches a shopkeeper claiming to be a police officer and demands a bribe. This individual is falsely impersonating a public servant (police officer) with the intent to deceive and gain an unlawful advantage. This act would fall under IPC Section 170.
4. Common Questions & Answers
Q: What constitutes a public servant under this section?
A: This term includes individuals holding government positions, like police officers, government officials, judges, etc.
Q: Is intent to deceive essential for this offense?
A: Yes, the act of personating a public servant must be done with the intention to deceive someone. A mere act of impersonation without intent to deceive would not be covered under this section.
Q: What are the possible punishments under this section?
A: The punishment can include imprisonment for up to three years, a fine, or both.
