IPC Section 153A = BNS Section 196

Promoting Enmity Between Different Groups

विभिन्न समूहों के बीच शत्रुता को बढ़ावा देना

Offences Against Public Tranquility No Change in Punishment Cognizable Non-Bailable Updated: 2026-02-28

Overview

Section 153A of the IPC dealt with promoting enmity between different groups on grounds of religion, race, place of birth, residence, language, etc. Under BNS 2023, this is now Section 196.
Hindi IPC की धारा 153A विभिन्न समूहों के बीच शत्रुता बढ़ावा देने से संबंधित थी। BNS 2023 के तहत यह अब धारा 196 है।

Side-by-Side Comparison

Aspect IPC (Old) BNS (New)
Section Number Section 153A Section 196
Title Promoting Enmity Between Different Groups Promoting Enmity Between Different Groups
Punishment Imprisonment up to 3 years, or fine, or both; on place of worship — up to 5 years and fine Imprisonment up to 3 years, or fine, or both; on place of worship — up to 5 years and fine
Cognizable Yes — Police can arrest without warrant
Bailable No — Bail at the discretion of the court
Compoundable No — Cannot be compounded/settled
Triable By Magistrate of the First Class

Key Changes

  • Section number changed from IPC 153A to BNS 196
  • Punishment remains the same
  • Electronic communication provisions added

Ingredients of the Offence

To establish this offence, the prosecution must prove:

  1. 1 The accused promoted enmity between groups on grounds of religion, race, etc.
  2. 2 The act was done by words, signs, or visible representations
  3. 3 The act was likely to disturb public tranquility

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the BNS equivalent of IPC Section 153A?

IPC Section 153A (Promoting Enmity Between Different Groups) is now BNS Section 196 under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita 2023, effective from July 1, 2024.

Has the punishment changed from IPC 153A to BNS 196?

No, the punishment remains substantially the same. Under BNS 196: Imprisonment up to 3 years, or fine, or both; on place of worship — up to 5 years and fine.

Is BNS Section 196 cognizable?

Yes, BNS Section 196 is a cognizable, non-bailable, and non-compoundable offence.

Legal Disclaimer

This IPC-to-BNS section comparison is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice. The mapping may not cover all nuances introduced by the new law. Always consult a qualified advocate or legal professional before relying on this information. For more details, see our Disclaimer.

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