Whoever refuses to bind himself by an oath or affirmation to state the truth, when required so to bind himself by a public servant legally competent to require that he shall so bind himself, shall be punished with simple imprisonment for a term which may extend to six months, or with fine which may extend to one thousand rupees, or with both.
IPC Section 178: Simplified Explanation
IPC Section 178 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) states, “Refusing to take an oath or make a declaration when duly required by a public servant.” This offence involves a person who, being legally bound to state the truth or to make a declaration upon any subject to any public servant or other person, in any of the cases in which such an oath or declaration is required by law, intentionally omits to state the truth or makes a false statement, or refuses to take the oath or make the declaration.
This section ensures that individuals comply with legal requirements to provide truthful information under oath or declaration, which is vital for administering justice and various governmental functions.
Is IPC Section 178 bailable?
IPC Section 178 is a bailable offence. This means an individual arrested under this section can secure their release on bail while awaiting further legal procedures.
IPC Section 178 Punishment
The punishment under IPC Section 178 includes simple imprisonment for a term extending to three months, or with a fine extending to five hundred rupees, or with both.
Example of IPC Section 178
A real-life example of IPC Section 178 could involve a witness in a court case who is required to testify under oath. If the witness refuses to take the oath or intentionally provides false information while under oath, they commit an offence under this section. Another instance might be a person required to make a sworn declaration for a government procedure who refuses to do so or provides misleading information in their declaration.
