This section applies to all cases of resisting arrest, no matter how serious.

It only applies when no other specific law (like Sections 224 or 225) already covers the situation — it's meant for leftover or minor cases.

Only the person escaping can be punished under this law.

The law also punishes anyone who helps or tries to help another person escape from lawful custody, or who obstructs someone else's lawful arrest.

Indian Penal Code, 1860

Section 225B

repealed

Resistance or obstruction to lawful apprehension, or escape or rescue in cases not otherwise provided for

Whoever, in any case not provided for in section 224 or section 225 or in any other law for the time being in force, intentionally offers any resistance or illegal obstruction to the lawful apprehension of himself or of any other person, or escapes or attempts to escape from any custody in which he is lawfully detained, or rescues or attempts to rescue any other person from any custody in which that person is lawfully detained, shall be punished with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to six months, or with fine, or with both.§

Why this exists

The Indian Penal Code has specific sections (like 224 and 225) dealing with resisting arrest or rescuing someone from custody in serious situations, such as when the person faces a criminal charge. Section 225B was added as a general 'catch-all' provision to cover minor or leftover situations of resisting arrest, escaping custody, or helping someone escape, that don't fit neatly into those other more specific sections or any other law. It ensures that lawful custody and arrest processes are respected even in cases not otherwise addressed.

Common misconceptions

Myth: This section applies to all cases of resisting arrest, no matter how serious.
Fact: It only applies when no other specific law (like Sections 224 or 225) already covers the situation — it's meant for leftover or minor cases.
Myth: Only the person escaping can be punished under this law.
Fact: The law also punishes anyone who helps or tries to help another person escape from lawful custody, or who obstructs someone else's lawful arrest.