Section 277 - False statement in verification, etc.

False statement in verification attracts rigorous imprisonment and fine where knowingly false statements cause tax evasion.

Section 277 penalises anyone who in any verification under the Income-tax Act or applicable rules, or by delivering an account or statement, makes a false statement which he knows or believes to be false or does not believe to be true; punishment is two-tiered: where the tax that would have been evaded exceeds twenty-five hundred thousand rupees, rigorous imprisonment of not less than six months and up to seven years and fine; otherwise rigorous imprisonment of not less than three months and up to two years and fine.