IPC 298 vs BNS 298 – Uttering Words to Wound Religious Feelings
Indian Penal Code (IPC)
Bhartiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS)
Section: IPC 298
Uttering words with deliberate intent to wound religious feelings
About IPC Section
Section 298 of the Indian Penal Code, 1860, deals with uttering words or making sounds with deliberate intent to wound the religious feelings of any person. This provision protects individuals’ religious sentiments from verbal or spoken insults that may cause emotional harm or provoke communal tension.
Key points:
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Applies to anyone who speaks or utters words with a deliberate intent to insult a religion or wound religious feelings.
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The act must intentionally target a religious group or its practices.
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Punishment: Imprisonment up to 1 year, or fine, or both.
Example: A person making offensive statements about a deity during a public religious gathering falls under IPC 298. The law ensures respect for religious beliefs and discourages verbal attacks on faith.
Section: BNS 298
Uttering words with deliberate intent to wound religious feelings
About BNS Section
Section 298 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, mirrors IPC 298. It punishes any individual who utters words or makes sounds deliberately intending to hurt the religious feelings of a community or its members.
Key points:
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Covers all verbal acts targeting religious beliefs, practices, or symbols.
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Intent is essential; accidental or casual remarks are not punishable.
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Punishment: Imprisonment up to 1 year, or fine, or both (same as IPC).
Example: A person posting derogatory comments online about a religious practice with intent to offend followers would be liable under BNS 298. This ensures protection of religious sentiments and communal harmony.