IPC 144 vs BNS 144 – Joining Unlawful Assembly Armed with Deadly Weapon
Indian Penal Code (IPC)
Bhartiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS)
Section: IPC 144
Joining unlawful assembly armed with deadly weapon
About IPC Section
Section 144 of the Indian Penal Code, 1860, prescribes punishment for joining or continuing in an unlawful assembly while armed with a deadly weapon. The purpose is to penalize assemblies that become more dangerous due to the presence of weapons.
Under IPC 144:
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If a person joins or remains in an unlawful assembly, armed with a deadly weapon likely to cause death,
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Or with anything that can be used as a deadly weapon,
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They are punishable with imprisonment up to 2 years, or fine, or both.
For example, if five people assemble unlawfully to attack someone, and one of them carries a gun, knife, or any lethal weapon, all those armed can be punished under IPC 144.
This provision enhances accountability by addressing the increased threat posed by armed assemblies. It is a key law against violent mobs, riots, and armed group activities, ensuring public safety.
Section: BNS 144
Joining unlawful assembly armed with deadly weapon
About BNS Section
Section 144 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, retains the same principle as IPC 144, punishing those who join or continue in an unlawful assembly while armed with deadly weapons.
Under BNS 144:
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Liability arises when a person knowingly joins an unlawful assembly while carrying a deadly weapon likely to cause death,
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It also applies if they carry an instrument that can be used as a deadly weapon,
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The punishment remains imprisonment up to 2 years, or fine, or both.
For instance, if members of a mob protesting unlawfully carry swords, firearms, or sharp weapons, they fall under BNS 144 and are liable to punishment.
This provision ensures stricter deterrence against violent and armed assemblies, maintaining public peace and protecting society from collective violence. Like IPC 144, BNS 144 keeps the law intact for continuity and clarity.