IPC Section 294 = BNS Section 296
Obscene Acts and Songs
अश्लील कार्य और गाने
Overview
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Aspect | IPC (Old) | BNS (New) |
|---|---|---|
| Section Number | Section 294 | Section 296 |
| Title | Obscene Acts and Songs | Obscene Acts and Songs |
| Punishment | Imprisonment up to 3 months, or fine, or both | Imprisonment up to 3 months, or fine, or both |
| Cognizable | Yes — Police can arrest without warrant | |
| Bailable | Yes — Bail is a matter of right | |
| Compoundable | No — Cannot be compounded/settled | |
| Triable By | Any Magistrate | |
Key Changes
- Section number changed from IPC 294 to BNS 296
- Punishment and scope remain the same
- No substantive changes in the provision
Ingredients of the Offence
To establish this offence, the prosecution must prove:
- 1 The accused did an obscene act in a public place
- 2 Or sang, recited, or uttered any obscene song, ballad, or words in or near a public place
- 3 The act caused annoyance to others
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the BNS equivalent of IPC Section 294?
IPC Section 294 (Obscene Acts and Songs) is now BNS Section 296 under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita 2023, effective from July 1, 2024.
What constitutes an obscene act under BNS 296?
Any act done in a public place that is obscene and causes annoyance to others. This includes singing or reciting obscene songs or words in or near a public place.
Is this offence bailable?
Yes. BNS Section 296 is a bailable offence with a maximum imprisonment of 3 months.
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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