Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023
Section 267
Intentional insult or interruption to public servant sitting in judicial proceeding
Whoever, intentionally offers any insult, or causes any interruption to any public servant, while such public servant is sitting in any stage of a judicial proceeding, shall be punished with simple imprisonment for a term which may extend to six months, or with fine which may extend to five thousand rupees, or with both.
Why this exists
Courts can only function if proceedings can continue without deliberate disruption or personal insult aimed at the presiding officer. This section creates a specific criminal offence for that kind of misconduct in court, distinct from the separate contempt-of-court power judges hold under other laws. It continues the old IPC Section 228.
Common misconceptions
- Myth: This section is the same as being held in contempt of court.
Fact: This is a distinct criminal offence under the general law, separate from a court's inherent contempt powers under the Contempt of Courts Act.