A minor technical defect makes a declaration harmless to use even if the facts are false.

The law explicitly says a declaration that is only informally defective still counts, so using it while knowing its facts are false remains punishable.

Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023

Section 237

Using as true such declaration knowing it to be false

Whoever corruptly uses or attempts to use as true any such declaration, knowing the same to be false in any material point, shall be punished in the same manner as if he gave false evidence. Explanation.—A declaration which is inadmissible merely upon the ground of some informality, is a declaration within the meaning of section 236 and this section.§

Why this exists

This is the mirror provision to Section 236, punishing whoever relies on and uses a false declaration, not just the person who originally made it. Earlier Section 200 of the Indian Penal Code, 1860, it ensures the chain of accountability covers everyone who knowingly puts false written declarations to use.

Common misconceptions

Myth: A minor technical defect makes a declaration harmless to use even if the facts are false.
Fact: The law explicitly says a declaration that is only informally defective still counts, so using it while knowing its facts are false remains punishable.