Section 248 of BNS : Section 248: False charge of offence made with intent to injure.

Explanation using Example

Example 1:

Ravi and Suresh are business competitors in the same locality. Ravi, wanting to ruin Suresh's reputation and business, decides to falsely accuse Suresh of theft. Ravi goes to the police and files a complaint stating that Suresh stole valuable equipment from his shop, knowing fully well that Suresh did not commit the theft. The police, acting on Ravi's false complaint, arrest Suresh and initiate criminal proceedings against him. Later, it is discovered that Ravi's accusations were baseless and made with the intent to harm Suresh. Under Section 248 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita 2023, Ravi can be punished with imprisonment for up to five years, a fine up to two lakh rupees, or both.

Example 2:

Anita and Priya are neighbors who have had several disputes over property boundaries. In an attempt to get back at Priya, Anita falsely accuses Priya of committing murder, a crime punishable with death or life imprisonment. Anita goes to the police and provides false evidence to support her claim, knowing that Priya is innocent. The police arrest Priya and start criminal proceedings based on Anita's false charge. Eventually, it is revealed that Anita fabricated the entire story to cause harm to Priya. According to Section 248 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita 2023, Anita can be punished with imprisonment for up to ten years and will also be liable to pay a fine.