Section 180G: Punishment for certain offences in relation to inquiry

Text of Section 180G:

“Whoever intentionally insults or causes any interruption in the inquiry proceedings or deliberately makes a false statement before the inquiring officer 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.”

Explanation of Section 180G:

Overview:

Section 180G provides for the punishment of individuals who interfere with or disrupt the inquiry proceedings under the Railways Act. It specifically addresses actions such as insulting the inquiring officer, causing interruptions, or deliberately providing false information during the inquiry. This section is designed to ensure that the inquiry process is conducted without obstruction, maintaining the integrity of the investigation.

Key Provisions:

1. Insulting the Inquiring Officer:
   • Any person who intentionally insults the officer conducting the inquiry is subject to punishment. This provision emphasizes the importance of maintaining respect and decorum during official proceedings, ensuring that the authority and functioning of the inquiring officer are upheld.
2. Causing Interruptions in the Inquiry:
   • If someone deliberately disrupts or interrupts the inquiry process, they can be punished. This provision aims to maintain the smooth progress of investigations, preventing individuals from hindering the legal and investigative process.
3. Making False Statements:
   • Providing false information or deliberately making false statements before the inquiring officer is considered an offence under this section. This helps to protect the integrity of the inquiry by ensuring that the officer receives accurate and truthful information, which is crucial for the proper conduct of investigations.
4. Punishment:
   • The section stipulates that anyone guilty of these offences can face:
     • Simple imprisonment for up to six months.
     • A fine up to one thousand rupees.
     • Both imprisonment and fine.

Importance of This Provision:

1. Ensuring Integrity of the Inquiry:
   • The primary goal of Section 180G is to ensure that the inquiry process is not compromised by disruptions, insults, or false information. By imposing penalties for these offences, it helps maintain the reliability and effectiveness of the investigation.
2. Deterrence:
   • The provision acts as a deterrent against interference with legal proceedings. By penalizing those who engage in such disruptive or dishonest behavior, it encourages cooperation and respect for the process.
3. Protection of the Inquiry Officer’s Authority:
   • The provision protects the authority of the inquiring officer, ensuring that their role is respected during the investigation. This is important for the proper functioning of the inquiry and to avoid unnecessary delays or complications.

Practical Impact:

• Maintaining Order During Inquiries: This section is crucial for maintaining order and discipline during official inquiries related to railway offences. By criminalizing disruptive behavior, it ensures that the process can continue smoothly without outside interference.
• Upholding Accuracy in Investigations: Preventing false statements is important for the accuracy and integrity of the investigation. False information can derail the inquiry and lead to incorrect conclusions, making this provision critical in preserving the truthfulness of the inquiry.

Conclusion:

Section 180G outlines punishments for individuals who disrupt or provide false information during the inquiry proceedings under the Railways Act. By penalizing such actions, the section safeguards the integrity of the inquiry process, ensures respect for the inquiring officer, and upholds the accuracy of investigations. The provision plays an essential role in maintaining the orderly conduct of railway-related legal proceedings.