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IPC Section 496 - Marriage ceremony fraudulently gone through without lawful marriage
Last Updated: 01 Nov, 2026
By Advocate Chikirsha Mohanty
Please refer to BNS 83 for updated procedures & punishments.
Whoever, dishonestly or with a fraudulent intention, goes through the ceremony of being married, knowing that he is not thereby lawfully married, shall be punished with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to seven years, and shall also be liable to fine.
IPC 496 in Simple Words
If someone dishonestly or fraudulently undergoes a marriage ceremony, knowing they are not lawfully married, they can be punished with imprisonment for up to seven years and may also be fined.
Marriage ceremony fraudulently gone through without lawful marriage
| Offence | Punishment | Cognizance | Bail | Triable |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A person with fraudulent intention going through the ceremony of being married knowing that he is not thereby lawfully married | 7 Years + Fine | Non-Cognizable | Bailable | Magistrate First Class |
Offence : A person with fraudulent intention going through the ceremony of being married knowing that he is not thereby lawfully married
Punishment : 7 Years + Fine
Cognizance : Non-Cognizable
Bail : Bailable
Triable : Magistrate First Class
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Section 493 and 496?
Section 493 deals exclusively with deceitful and fraudulent marriages. 14 Aug 2020
What is the punishment for fake marriage certificate in India?
Penalty: The offence is punishable under Section 496. The offence can be punished by imprisonment, either of a simple or a strict nature, up to seven years in length, plus a fine.
