A landlord gives free accommodation to a public servant

Solution

Providing free accommodation to a public servant to expedite file clearance constitutes an “undue advantage” under the PC Act. The Act defines gratification broadly, including any benefit, pecuniary or otherwise, linked to public duty. It is immaterial whether money changes hands; offering services, gifts, or favours intending to influence official action attracts liability. Option (a) is incorrect; it is an offence. Option (c), habitual bribery, requires repeated offences. Option (d), criminal misconduct, is broader and not necessary for single acts. Therefore, (b) is correct, highlighting that all forms of undue benefit in public service are captured.