IPC 162 vs BNS 162
● Retained in BNSPunishment for committing affray in disguise
Section 162 of the Indian Penal Code, 1860, addresses the offence of committing an affray while disguised. Wearing disguises or masks to hide identity during a public fight aggravates the offence.
Key points of IPC 162:
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Applies when two or more persons fight in public while concealing their identities.
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The disguise can be a mask, uniform, makeup, or any other method.
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Punishment: imprisonment up to 3 months, or fine up to ₹200, or both.
For example, if a group wears masks and engages in a street fight or public clash, they are punishable under IPC 162.
This section aims to deter organized or premeditated public violence, as disguising identity makes it harder for authorities to identify offenders and maintain public peace.
Punishment for committing affray in disguise
Section 162 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, mirrors IPC 162. It penalizes committing an affray in public while wearing a disguise, emphasizing accountability and traceability of offenders.
Key points of BNS 162:
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Covers fights or clashes in public with identity concealment.
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Punishment: up to 3 months imprisonment, or fine up to ₹200, or both.
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Acts as a deterrent against premeditated group violence, making offenders easier to prosecute.
For instance, a gang wearing masks and engaging in a street fight or mob clash can be prosecuted under BNS 162.
This section strengthens public safety laws by discouraging disguised participation in fights and ensuring that organized public violence is penalized more severely.
What changed?
This provision was carried over to the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita with substantially the same wording — the section was renumbered from IPC IPC 162 to BNS BNS 162.