Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023
Section 242
False personation for purpose of act or proceeding in suit or prosecution
Whoever falsely personates another, and in such assumed character makes any admission or statement, or confesses judgment, or causes any process to be issued or becomes bail or security, or does any other act in any suit or criminal prosecution, shall be punished with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to three years, or with fine, or with both.
Why this exists
Courts rely on knowing exactly who is appearing before them and who is bound by admissions, bail, or judgments. This provision, earlier Section 205 of the Indian Penal Code, 1860, prevents people from impersonating others in legal proceedings to manipulate outcomes, whether by fraudulently accepting liability on someone else's behalf or by standing as a fake surety.
Common misconceptions
- Myth: Sending someone in your place to a court hearing is a minor procedural shortcut, not a real crime.
Fact: Falsely posing as another person and acting in their name during a legal proceeding is itself a distinct criminal offence.