IPC Section 86
📖 IPC Section 86 – Public servant taking gratification other than legal remuneration in respect of an official act
Section 86 deals with situations where a public servant accepts or agrees to accept a bribe or gratification (payment, gift, or benefit) other than their legal salary or fees in connection with their official duties.
⚖️ Key Points:
Who it applies to –
Public servants: Government employees, officials, or anyone holding a public office.
What is prohibited –
Accepting or agreeing to accept any gratification (gift, money, or other benefit):
Other than legal remuneration (salary or official fees).
The gratification must be connected to their official duties.
Key element –
The act is an offence even if the public servant does not actually perform the act.
Simply agreeing to accept a bribe is punishable.
📌 Simplified Explanation:
Public servants are not allowed to take bribes or extra benefits in relation to their official work.
Even if the bribe is promised but not yet given, or the act is not completed, Section 86 still applies.
✅ Examples:
Money for issuing a license –
A government officer asks for money from a person to issue a license that should be issued free of charge.
Accepting or even agreeing to accept that money falls under Section 86.
Gift for favors –
A municipal officer accepts gifts in return for approving building plans.
This is punishable under Section 86, as it is gratification beyond legal fees.
⚠️ Important Notes:
Section 86 is part of the provisions on corruption and misconduct by public servants.
The law is strict to ensure integrity and honesty in public service.

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