BNS Section 302 – Uttering words, etc, with deliberate intent to wound religious feelings
The Indian Penal Code (IPC) Section – 298
BNS Section 302: Uttering Words or Gestures to Wound Religious Feelings
This section deals with actions or words intended to hurt the religious feelings of any person. It ensures that people are protected from deliberate insults or disrespect based on their religious beliefs. Below is a simple explanation of the law in easy-to-understand language:
What is the Offence?
If a person, with the deliberate intention of hurting the religious feelings of someone, does any of the following, it is a crime:
- Uttering Words: Speaks or says something offensive about their religion in their hearing.
- Making Sounds: Creates sounds or noises meant to insult their religious beliefs.
- Making Gestures: Uses physical gestures or signs to insult their religion in their sight.
- Placing Objects: Places an object in a way that insults their religion when they see it.
Example
Vijay goes to a mosque and starts shouting anti-Muslim slurs to hurt the religious feelings of the people there. Vijay is guilty under this section.
What is the Punishment?
The punishment for this offence is:
- Jail term of up to 1 year, or
- Fine, or
- Both jail term and fine.
Other Important Details
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Cognizable or Non-cognizable | Cognizable – Police can arrest without a warrant. |
| Bailable or Non-bailable | Bailable – The accused can seek bail. |
| Court for Trial | Any Magistrate – The case can be tried in a Magistrate’s court. |
Key Points to Understand
- Deliberate Intention: The act must be done intentionally to hurt religious feelings, not by accident.
- Religious Sentiments: The law protects people from insults or disrespect based on their religious beliefs.
- Methods of Insult: This includes words, sounds, gestures, or objects meant to offend religious feelings.
Why is this Law Important?
This law is important because:
- It protects individuals from deliberate insults to their religious beliefs.
- It promotes respect and harmony among people of different religions.
- It prevents actions that could lead to communal tension or conflict.
Summary
BNS Section 302 makes it a crime to intentionally hurt the religious feelings of any person through words, sounds, gestures, or objects. The punishment includes up to 1 year in jail, a fine, or both. The law ensures that people’s religious sentiments are respected and maintains peace in society.
