This section itself defines what counts as 'undue influence' or 'personation'.

It only sets the punishment; the definitions of these offences are found in other laws, mainly the Representation of the People Act, 1951.

This offence only applies to election officials or candidates.

Any person, including ordinary voters or outsiders, can be charged under this section if they commit undue influence or personation.

Indian Penal Code, 1860

Section 171F

repealed

Punishment for undue influence or personation at an election

Whoever commits the offence of undue influence or personation at an election shall be punished with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to one year or with fine, or with both.§

Why this exists

This section is part of a set of election-offence provisions added to the Indian Penal Code to protect the integrity of the electoral process. Free and fair elections require that voters cast their ballots according to their own free will and that only eligible persons vote in their own name. The terms 'undue influence' and 'personation' are defined elsewhere in election law (such as the Representation of the People Act, 1951), and this IPC section supplies the actual criminal penalty for committing either offence.

Common misconceptions

Myth: This section itself defines what counts as 'undue influence' or 'personation'.
Fact: It only sets the punishment; the definitions of these offences are found in other laws, mainly the Representation of the People Act, 1951.
Myth: This offence only applies to election officials or candidates.
Fact: Any person, including ordinary voters or outsiders, can be charged under this section if they commit undue influence or personation.