What Is BNS Section 173?

Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 - Section 173: Punishment for Bribery

Whoever commits the offence of bribery shall be punished with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to one year, or with fine, or with both:

Provided that bribery by treating shall be punished with fine only.

Explanation: Treating means that form of bribery where the gratification consists in food, drink, entertainment, or provision.

Brief Detail

BNS Section 173 outlines the punishment for committing the offence of bribery. The punishment includes imprisonment for up to one year, a fine, or both. However, bribery through treating, which involves providing food, drink, or entertainment, is punishable only by a fine.

Question & Answers

Q1: What are the possible punishments for bribery under BNS Section 173?

A1: Under BNS Section 173, the possible punishments for bribery include imprisonment of up to one year, a fine, or both. If the bribery involves treating, the punishment is limited to a fine.

Q2: What constitutes treating in the context of bribery?

A2: Treating refers to bribery where the gratification involves providing food, drink, entertainment, or other provisions.

Example

Example Scenario:

If an individual offers a bribe in the form of a lavish dinner to influence someone's decision, it is considered treating. The punishment for such bribery would be a fine only, as per the provision in BNS Section 173.

Summary

BNS Section 173 prescribes punishment for bribery, including imprisonment for up to one year or a fine, or both. Bribery through treating, which involves providing food, drink, or entertainment, is punishable only by a fine.