Section 173 of IPC : Section 173: Preventing Service Of Summons Or Other Proceeding, Or Preventing Publication Thereof

Explanation using Example

Imagine a scenario where a government official issues a notice for a property tax audit to a homeowner, Raj. The notice is to be served personally to ensure Raj is aware of the audit. However, when the process server arrives, Raj sees him through the window and decides to hide, refusing to answer the door. By doing so, Raj intentionally prevents the server from delivering the notice. In this case, Raj's actions could be seen as a violation of Section 173 of The Indian Penal Code, 1860, as he has intentionally prevented the serving of a notice from a public servant. If Raj's actions are proven in a court, he could face simple imprisonment, a fine, or both, as prescribed by the law.