IPC Section 67
IPC Section 67 – Public Servants Receiving Gifts, etc., for Official Acts
What does Section 67 say?
Section 67 deals with public servants accepting gifts, rewards, or valuable things as a motive or reward for doing or forbearing to do an official act.
It states:
Whoever, being a public servant, accepts or obtains, or agrees to accept or attempts to obtain, from any person any gratification (gift, reward, or valuable thing) —
As a motive or reward for doing or forbearing to do any official act; or
For showing or forbearing to show, in the exercise of his official functions, favor or disfavor to any person; or
For rendering or attempting to render any service or disservice in the exercise of his official functions;
Shall be punished with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to three years, or with fine, or with both.
Explanation in Detail:
Who is a Public Servant?
A public servant is a person who holds an office under the government, whether at the central, state, or local level.
This includes government officials, police officers, judges, and others performing official duties.
What Kind of Gratification?
Gratification refers to any kind of gift, reward, or valuable thing (money, property, favors).
It does not matter whether the gratification is accepted directly or through an agent.
Acts Covered:
The gratification must be accepted as a motive or reward for:
Doing or refusing to do an official act.
Showing or refusing to show favor or disfavor to any person in their official duties.
Rendering or attempting to render any service or disservice in the exercise of official functions.
Punishment:
Imprisonment (simple or rigorous) for up to 3 years, or fine, or both.
This punishment acts as a deterrent against corruption and bribery among public servants.
Why is Section 67 Important?
It aims to prevent corruption in public offices.
Ensures that public servants perform their duties fairly and without influence from bribes.
Protects public interest by criminalizing the acceptance of gratification related to official acts.
Difference with Other Sections on Corruption:
Section 67 specifically focuses on accepting gratification for acts or omissions in official duties.
Other sections like Section 161 (Taking bribe for public servant), or provisions in the Prevention of Corruption Act might deal with broader or more specific corrupt practices.
Example:
A government officer accepts money to approve a license faster than usual.
A police officer takes a gift to avoid filing a complaint against someone.
In both cases, Section 67 would apply because the gratification is linked to official acts or omissions.
Summary:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Who is covered? | Public servants performing official duties |
| What is prohibited? | Accepting gratification as motive or reward for official acts/omissions |
| Punishment | Imprisonment up to 3 years, fine, or both |
| Purpose | Prevent corruption and ensure impartial public service |
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