IPC Section 153A

BNS Section 196— Promoting enmity between different groups on grounds of religion, race, place of birth, residence, language, etc., and doing acts prejudicial to maintenance of harmony

Effective for any FIR, charge sheet, or filing on or after 1 July 2024. Matters that arose before that date continue under the IPC.

Prohibits promoting enmity, disharmony, or ill-will between different religious, racial, linguistic, regional, caste, or community groups through words, signs, electronic communication, or acts prejudicial to public tranquillity, as well as organising or participating in activities intended to train participants in criminal force or violence against such groups. An aggravated offence is committed when the act is done in a place of worship or during religious ceremonies.

Punishment

Basic offence (s.196(1)): imprisonment up to 3 years, or fine, or both. Aggravated offence in place of worship (s.196(2)): imprisonment up to 5 years and fine.

Triable by

Sessions Court

Cognizable

Yes

Bailable

No