What is Section 153A IPC? Promoting enmity between different groups on grounds of religion, race, place of birth, residence, language, etc.
Published on: Lawiz Team
Detailed explanation of Section 153A IPC: Promoting enmity between different groups on grounds of religion, race, place of birth, residence, language, etc..
Official Legal Text
Whoever—
(a) by words, either spoken or written, or by signs or by visible representations or otherwise, promotes or attempts to promote, on grounds of religion, race, place of birth, residence, language, caste or community or any other ground whatsoever, disharmony or feelings of enmity, hatred or ill-will between different religious, racial, language or regional groups or castes or communities, or
(b) commits any act which is prejudicial to the maintenance of harmony between different religious, racial, language or regional groups or castes or communities,
shall be punished with imprisonment which may extend to three years, or with fine, or with both.
What This IPC Section Means – Explained in Simple Words
Section 153A punishes individuals who promote enmity between different groups based on religion, race, place of birth, language, etc.
Purpose
To maintain communal harmony and prevent hate speech or actions.
Bailable or Not Bailable & Punishment
Bailable: Non-Bailable, Punishment: Imprisonment up to 3 years, or fine, or both; In case of offence in place of worship, imprisonment up to 5 years and fine.
Key Elements
Any act or speech that promotes enmity or hatred between groups.
Punishment Details
Imprisonment which may extend to three years, or with fine, or with both.
Legal Defenses
If the statement was made in good faith for the protection of national interest.
Judicial Interpretation
Courts analyze whether the speech or act was intended to promote hatred.
Illustration
If a person makes hateful remarks against a religious group, they can be punished under Section 153A.
FAQs
What does Section 153A IPC define?
Promoting enmity between different groups on grounds of religion, race, place of birth, residence, language, etc..
Where is Section 153A IPC applicable?
In cases involving promoting enmity between different groups on grounds of religion, race, place of birth, residence, language, etc. situations.
What is the scope of Section 153A IPC?
It deals with offences relating to unlawful assemblies, riots, and public order.
Give an example of Section 153A IPC being used.
It is applied when individuals join unlawful assemblies or provoke public disorder.
What punishments are mentioned in Section 153A IPC?
Punishments include imprisonment, fine, or both depending on severity.
Is Section 153A IPC connected to other IPC sections?
Yes, it works alongside related riot, unlawful assembly, and public disturbance laws.
How have courts interpreted Section 153A IPC?
Courts focus on common object, criminal force, and disturbance of peace while interpreting.