The False Information Bill has been passed by parliament.
The new law states that a person must not knowingly make a false representation to any officer, agent or representative of the government or an entity.
Any person who contravenes this section is liable upon conviction to a fine not exceeding $10,000 or upto 5 years imprisonment or to both.
Any person that uses the benefit for the purpose other than what it was intended for is liable upon conviction to a fine not exceeding $20,000 or upto 10 years imprisonment or to both.
While tabling the bill, Attorney General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum said the government has brought in a number of initiatives and a law is needed to ensure that people do not give false information to get the targeted benefits.
He said if someone is receiving money from the state by giving false information, they are also liable to compensate the state.
Sayed-Khaiyum said money should be given out to recipients in a prudent manner and they are bringing this new law before the Poverty Alleviation Ministry goes out to disburse the housing assistance cards to people affected by Tropical Cyclone Winston.
Sayed-Khaiyum said people need to be honest when they apply for government assistance.
SODELPA parliamentarian Semesa Karavaki opposed the bill, saying that the penalties are severe and people should not seek government assistance to build their homes.
29 parliamentarians voted for the bill, 14 MPs voted against it while 7 parliamentarians did not vote.
