Introduction of Section BNS 172
BNS 172 is a law that aims to protect public servants from being interrupted or blocked while they are doing their official work. This section makes it illegal for anyone to intentionally stop or hinder these workers, like police officers or government officials, in carrying out their duties. The purpose of this law is to ensure that essential public services can be performed without interference, promoting order and accountability in governance. If someone violates this law, they can face serious consequences, including fines or imprisonment.
The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) Section 172 replaces the old Indian Penal Code (IPC) Section 171-D.
- Introduction of Section BNS 172
- What is BNS Section 172 ?
- BNS 172 in Simple Points
- Section 172 BNS Overview
- BNS 172 Punishment
- BNS 172 bailable or not ?
- Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita Section 172
- BNS Section 172 FAQs
- If you need support with court proceedings or any other legal matters, don’t hesitate to reach out for assistance.
What is BNS Section 172 ?
BNS Section 172 is a law that makes it a crime to stop or interfere with a public servant while they are doing their official work. This could be anyone working for the government, like police officers or government inspectors. The law says that if someone intentionally tries to prevent these workers from doing their job, they can be punished.

BNS 172 in Simple Points
- Purpose of the Law
Section 172 is designed to protect public servants by making it illegal to intentionally obstruct or interfere with them while they perform their official duties. This helps ensure that essential government functions can continue smoothly. - Types of Public Servants Covered
The section applies to any public servant, including police officers, government inspectors, and other officials. It encompasses all individuals working for the government who have a role in serving the public. - Intentional Acts Required
To be charged under this section, the act of obstruction must be intentional. This means that the person must have knowingly tried to stop or hinder the public servant’s work. - Punishments for Offenders
If someone is found guilty of violating Section 172, they can face imprisonment for up to two years, a fine, or both. The specific punishment depends on the nature of the offense and the circumstances involved. - Bailable and Non-Cognizable
Section 172 is a bailable offense, allowing the accused to apply for bail. It is also classified as non-cognizable, meaning that police need permission from a court to make an arrest related to this offense.
Section 172 BNS Overview
BNS Section 172 is a law that makes it a crime to stop or interfere with a public servant while they are doing their official work. This could be anyone working for the government, like police officers or government inspectors. The law says that if someone intentionally tries to prevent these workers from doing their job, they can be punished.
BNS Section 172: 10 Key Points
- What Section 172 Covers
Section 172 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) talks about situations where someone stops or interferes with a public servant while they are doing their official job. It’s designed to protect public officials from unnecessary obstruction while they perform their duties. - Intentional Obstruction
The section specifically deals with cases where the obstruction is done intentionally. This means the person knew they were stopping a public servant from working and still chose to do it. - Public Servants Included
Public servants under this law could be police officers, government officials, or any worker of the state who is performing a legal duty. Section 172 ensures they can carry out their work without interference. - Type of Actions Punished
This section focuses on actions that deliberately delay, stop, or disrupt a public servant’s work. For example, blocking a police officer from making an arrest or preventing a government official from inspecting a building would fall under this. - Punishment – Imprisonment
If someone is found guilty under Section 172, they can face imprisonment for up to two years. The exact time would depend on the seriousness of the offense and the circumstances. - Punishment – Fine
In addition to or instead of imprisonment, the guilty person may also be asked to pay a fine. The amount of the fine depends on the severity of the obstruction. - Non-Cognizable Offense
Section 172 is classified as a non-cognizable offense, which means that the police cannot arrest the person without a warrant. They would need permission from the court to take action. - Bailable Offense
Offenses under this section are bailable, meaning the accused person can apply for bail and be released from custody until the trial. - Triable by Magistrate
Any case under Section 172 will be tried by a Magistrate, who is a judicial officer. Typically, the case is handled by a Magistrate of the first class. - Ensures Public Services Are Not Disrupted
The overall purpose of Section 172 is to ensure that public servants can carry out their legal duties without unnecessary interference, helping maintain order and governance.
Examples of Section 172
- Example 1: Stopping a Firefighter
Imagine a fire breaks out in a building, and a group of people tries to block the entrance, stopping firefighters from entering because they don’t want the property damaged. In this case, those people could be charged under Section 172 because they intentionally stopped a public servant (the firefighter) from performing a lawful duty. - Example 2: Obstructing a Health Inspector
A health inspector comes to a restaurant to check for cleanliness and food safety. The restaurant owner tries to stop the inspector from entering the kitchen by locking the door and refusing to cooperate. This act could be seen as an intentional obstruction under Section 172, leading to possible punishment for the restaurant owner.
BNS 172 Punishment
Imprisonment: A term that may extend up to two years.
Fine: The offender may also face a fine, either in addition to or instead of imprisonment.

BNS 172 bailable or not ?
Section 172 is a bailable offense.
Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita Section 172
Clause | Details |
---|---|
Section Number | 172 |
Subject | Obstruction of a public servant in the discharge of duties |
Imprisonment Term | Up to two years |
Fine | Yes |
Bailable/Non-Bailable | Bailable |
Trial Type | Triable by Magistrate |
Cognizable/Non-Cognizable | Non-cognizable |
BNS Section 172 FAQs
What does Section 172 deal with?
What is the punishment for violating Section 172?
The punishment can be up to two years of imprisonment, a fine, or both.
Is Section 172 a bailable offense?
Yes, it is a bailable offense.
BNS 172 it a cognizable offense?
No, it is a non-cognizable offense.
If you need support with court proceedings or any other legal matters, don’t hesitate to reach out for assistance.
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