False evidence: intentional fabrication or testimony in judicial stages attracts heavier imprisonment and fines than in other cases. Intentional giving or fabrication of false evidence used in any stage of a judicial proceeding is punishable by imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to seven years and by a fine, while similar conduct outside such stages attracts a lesser term of imprisonment and a lower fine. Courts-martial, court-directed investigations, and preliminary investigations directed by law are treated as stages of judicial proceedings; illustrations demonstrate that false sworn statements in such enquiries amount to false evidence.