BNS 2023Chapter XIXIPC: IPC Section 505
Section 353
Statements Conducing to Public Mischief
Criminal Intimidation, Insult and Annoyance
Plain English Explanation
Section 353 covers false statements, rumours, and fake news that cause public mischief. This includes spreading misinformation that endangers national security, incites people against public officials, creates panic, or undermines India's credit. Often used in cases of WhatsApp fake news, social media misinformation, and panic-inducing rumours during disasters.
Legal Text
Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 · Section 353
(1) Whoever makes, publishes or circulates any statement, rumour or report,— (a) with intent to cause, or which is likely to cause, any officer, soldier, sailor or airman in the Army, Navy or Air Force of India to mutiny or otherwise disregard or fail in his duty as such...
Keywords
fake newsmisinformationrumourspublic mischiefsocial mediaWhatsApp forwards
Related Sections
Punishment
Up to 3 years or fine or both
IPC Equivalent
IPC Section 505
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