Whoever commits the offence of bribery shall be punished with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to one year, or with fine, or with both:

Provided that bribery by treating shall be punished with fine only.

Explanation.— “Treating” means that form of bribery where the gratification consists in food, drink, entertainment, or provision.

Classification of Offence as per Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS)

• Punishment:
  • Imprisonment for 1 year or fine, or both, or if treating only, fine only.
• Non-cognizable
• Bailable
• Triable by Magistrate of the first class.