Contempts of the Lawful Authority of Public Servants
Being legally bound to assist a public servant executing their duty, and intentionally omitting to, is punished with up to 1 month's imprisonment, up to ₹2,500 fine, or both - rising to 6 months/₹5,000 for assistance demanded to execute court process, prevent an offence, suppress a riot, or apprehend/recapture someone.
This creates an affirmative duty to help officials when the law specifically requires it, with a higher penalty for refusing to help in higher-stakes situations like preventing a crime or catching a fleeing suspect.
A bystander legally required to assist police in apprehending an escaping suspect, who deliberately refuses to help when asked, faces this enhanced version of the offence.