Section 227 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) applies when a person, who is legally bound to tell the truth under oath or as required by law, makes a false statement knowing it to be false or not believing it to be true.
This law ensures that individuals provide truthful evidence in legal proceedings to uphold justice.
Explanation:
A statement can be considered false evidence whether it is made verbally, in writing, or in any other form. A person can also be guilty if they falsely claim to believe something that they do not truly believe.
Illustrations:
If a person falsely testifies in court that they heard someone admit to owing money, they are guilty of giving false evidence.
Similarly, if a translator knowingly provides an incorrect translation of a legal document under oath, it is also false evidence.
Punishment:
Whoever gives false evidence under oath shall be punished with imprisonment and fine, as per related legal provisions on perjury and obstruction of justice.
How It Protects:
This section ensures the integrity of the judicial system by preventing perjury and false testimonies.
It protects innocent individuals from wrongful conviction and ensures that justice is based on truthful and reliable statements.
Example:
If a witness in a criminal trial knowingly lies about seeing the accused at the crime scene, they are guilty under this section.
Similarly, if an expert witness falsely verifies a forged document, they can be prosecuted.
