96. Penalty for obstructing officer or other person exercising powers under this Act: -
Any person who obstructs an officer of the Government in the exercise of any power conferred on him, or in the performance of any function entrusted to him, by or under this Act or any other person lawfully assisting such officer in the exercise of such power or in the performance of such function or who fails to comply with any lawful direction made by such officer or person shall be punished with fine which may extend to [one thousand rupees] [Substituted for the words 'two hundred and fifty rupees' by Act No. 27 of 1987, w.e.f. 1-6-1987.].
