Introduction of Section 173 BNS
BNS Section 173 deals with the punishment for the offense of bribery. It lays down that anyone found guilty of giving or receiving bribes will face imprisonment for up to one year, a fine, or both. However, if the bribery involves “treating,” meaning offering food, drink, or entertainment as a bribe, the punishment will be limited to a fine. The section aims to discourage corrupt practices, particularly in electoral or official contexts.
The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) Section 173 replaces the old Indian Penal Code (IPC) Section 171-E.
- Introduction of Section 173 BNS
- What is BNS Section 173 ?
- BNS 173 in Simple Points
- Section 173 BNS Overview
- BNS 173 Punishment
- BNS 173 bailable or not ?
- Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita Section 173
- BNS Section 173 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 173 ?
BNS Section 173 addresses the punishment for bribery, stating that anyone committing this offense can be punished with imprisonment for up to one year, a fine, or both. If the bribery involves “treating,” meaning offering food or entertainment, the punishment is a fine only. This section targets corrupt practices to ensure fair dealings in elections and official activities.

BNS 173 in Simple Points
- Bribery Punishable by Imprisonment or Fine
Bribery under this section can lead to imprisonment for up to one year or a fine, or both, depending on the severity of the offense. - Bribery by “Treating”
If the bribery involves “treating” (providing food, drink, or entertainment), the punishment is limited to a fine and does not include imprisonment. - Explanation of “Treating”
The section explains that “treating” refers to a type of bribery where the gratification is given in the form of hospitality, such as food or entertainment. - Non-Cognizable Offense
Bribery under Section 173 is a non-cognizable offense, meaning the police cannot arrest without a warrant. - Bailable Offense
The offense is bailable, meaning the accused can apply for bail and be released pending trial.
Section 173 BNS Overview
BNS Section 173 deals with the punishment for bribery. It says that anyone guilty of bribery can face up to one year in jail, a fine, or both. If the bribery involves offering food or entertainment, the punishment is just a fine. This section aims to stop corruption and ensure fairness in elections and official work.
BNS 173 :10 Key Points
1. Bribery
Bribery means offering someone something valuable, like money, gifts, or favors, to get them to do something illegal or dishonest. It is commonly used to influence someone’s decision, especially in elections or government jobs. This section makes it clear that bribery is illegal.
2. Punishment for Bribery
If someone is caught giving or accepting a bribe, they can be punished by being sent to jail for up to 1 year. This is meant to be a strong deterrent to stop people from trying to buy or sell influence.
3. Fine for Bribery
In addition to or instead of jail time, a person found guilty of bribery may have to pay a fine. The court will decide how much the fine will be based on the seriousness of the bribery.
4. “Treating” Defined
The section explains a special type of bribery called “treating”. This happens when someone offers food, drink, entertainment, or other hospitality to get someone to do something wrong. It’s considered a form of bribery, but the punishment for it is different.
5. Punishment for “Treating”
If someone is guilty of bribery by “treating,” they won’t go to jail. Instead, they will only have to pay a fine. This is because offering food or entertainment is seen as a lighter form of bribery compared to giving money.
6. Non-Cognizable Offense
Bribery under Section 173 is a non-cognizable offense. This means the police cannot arrest someone for bribery without a court’s permission. A warrant is required to make an arrest, which offers some protection to the accused.
7. Bailable Offense
Bribery is a bailable offense under this section. This means that if someone is arrested for bribery, they can apply for bail and be released while their case is being processed in court. They don’t have to stay in jail during the trial unless the court decides otherwise.
8. Tried by Magistrate of First Class
Cases of bribery under this section are handled by a Magistrate of the First Class. This is a type of judge who deals with less serious offenses. The magistrate has the authority to conduct the trial, hear the evidence, and give the final judgment.
9. Non-Compoundable Offense
Bribery under BNS Section 173 is a non-compoundable offense. This means that once the case is filed, it cannot be settled out of court or withdrawn by the parties involved. The case must be decided by the court, even if the victim and the accused want to come to a private agreement.
10. Purpose of the Law
The main goal of Section 173 is to stop corruption, especially during elections. It aims to ensure that people do not offer or accept bribes to influence voting or other important decisions. The section provides clear punishments to discourage people from engaging in bribery.
Examples of BNS Section 173
- Example 1: Offering Money A person offers ₹50,000 to a government official in exchange for approving a construction project without following the necessary legal procedures. This action constitutes bribery, and if caught, the person could be sentenced to imprisonment for up to one year, a fine, or both.
- Example 2: Treating as Bribery During an election campaign, a candidate organizes a lavish party and provides free food and drinks to voters to influence their decision at the polls. Since this is considered “treating,” if the candidate is found guilty, they will only be fined, with no imprisonment.
BNS 173 Punishment
- Imprisonment
If a person commits bribery, they may face imprisonment for up to one year based on the seriousness of the offense. - Fine
A person found guilty of bribery may also face a fine, either alone or in combination with imprisonment. If the bribery is through “treating,” the punishment is limited to a fine only.

BNS 173 bailable or not ?
Yes, BNS Section 173 is a bailable offense. This means that a person arrested under this section has the right to apply for bail, and if granted, can be released from custody pending trial.
Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita Section 173
Section | Description |
---|---|
Offense | Bribery (offering or accepting benefits for influence) |
Definition | Bribery includes giving money, gifts, or hospitality to influence someone |
“Treating” | Offering food, drink, or entertainment as a bribe |
Punishment | Imprisonment up to 1 year, fine, or both |
Treating Punishment | Fine only, no imprisonment |
Cognizability | Non-cognizable (requires a warrant for arrest) |
Bailability | Bailable (the accused can be released on bail) |
Trial | Magistrate of First Class |
Compoundability | Non-compoundable (cannot be settled between the parties) |
Objective | To prevent bribery in elections or official duties and maintain fair practices |
BNS Section 173 FAQs
What does BNS Section 173 cover?
It covers the punishment for bribery, including giving or accepting money or gifts to influence someone.
What is the punishment for bribery?
The punishment can be up to 1 year of imprisonment, a fine, or both. For “treating,” only a fine is imposed.
Is BNS Section 173 bailable?
Yes, offenses under Section 173 are bailable.
Who handles cases under Section 173?
Cases are tried by a Magistrate of the First Class.
Can bribery cases be settled privately?
No, bribery under this section is non-compoundable, meaning it cannot be withdrawn or settled between parties.
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