Section 431a

Whoever commits mischief by cutting or injuring any electric telegraph cable, wire, line, post, instrument or apparatus for signalling, shall be punished with imprisonment for a term which may extend to two years or with fine or with both.

Explanation—The injuring here must be of such a nature as to prevent the use of the electric telegraph cable, wire or line, for telegraphing, otherwise the offence will be punishable under section 426.