IPC Section 180
IPC Section 180 — Refusing to sign a written statement
Text of Section 180:
"Whoever, being required by a public servant lawfully authorized to investigate or record any information relating to any offence, refuses or wilfully omits to sign a statement in writing when such statement is read over to him, shall be punished with simple imprisonment for a term which may extend to one month, or with fine which may extend to five hundred rupees, or with both."
📌 Key points:
Applies when a public servant authorized to investigate an offence asks a person to sign a written statement.
If the person refuses or willfully omits to sign the statement after it is read over to him,
That refusal or omission is an offence under this section.
The idea is to ensure that statements recorded during investigations are properly acknowledged.
⚖️ Punishment:
Simple imprisonment for up to 1 month, or
Fine up to ₹500, or
Both.
📝 Why is this important?
It helps maintain the integrity of police or official investigations.
Encourages cooperation with lawful procedures during inquiries.
Prevents obstruction of justice by withholding signatures on statements.
Example:
If a witness refuses to sign their written statement after it has been read to them by the police, they can be punished under Section 180.
RELATED Blog
0 comments