OFFENCESCentral

Section 31 of The Border Security Force Act, 1968

Any person subject to this Act who commits any of the following offences, that is to say,—

(a)commits extortion; or
(b)without proper authority exacts from any person money, provisions or service, shall, on conviction by a Security Force Court, be liable to suffer imprisonment for a term which may extend to ten years or such less punishment as is in this Act mentioned.

Summary

This section targets extortion, which is forcing people to give up money or property through threats.
It also forbids members from demanding money, food, or services from anyone without legal right.
This includes using your position to take things from civilians or subordinates illegally.
The law views these acts of corruption as major offences against discipline.
The penalty for these crimes is a prison term of up to ten years.

Practical examples

1Officer Raj tells a local truck driver that he will impound the vehicle unless the driver pays him five hundred rupees. This threat to take money is an act of extortion.

2While stationed in a remote village, a sergeant demands that the local villagers provide his squad with free eggs and milk every morning without paying or having any official requisition. This is exacting provisions without authority.

3A member of the Force tells a contractor that he will only sign a delivery receipt if the contractor cleans the member's private car for free. This is an illegal demand for service.

FAQ

1. What is the maximum penalty for extortion under Section 31 of The Border Security Force Act, 1968?

A person convicted of extortion under Section 31 of The Border Security Force Act, 1968, can be imprisoned for up to ten years.

2. Is it illegal to ask for a favor from a local person under the BSF Act?

If you exact a service or money without proper authority, it is a crime under Section 31 of The Border Security Force Act, 1968.

3. Does Section 31 of the BSF Act cover taking food from people?

Yes, Section 31 of The Border Security Force Act, 1968, specifically mentions exacting provisions, which includes food, from any person without authority.

Test yourself

Q1.Under Section 31 of The Border Security Force Act, 1968, which of the following is an offence?

Q2.What is the maximum imprisonment allowed for corruption under Section 31 of The Border Security Force Act, 1968?

Q3.If a member uses a threat to get a civilian to give them a motorcycle, which section of the BSF Act is violated?

Q4.Comparing Section 31 to Section 30 of The Border Security Force Act, 1968, what do they have in common?

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