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Section 195 — Assaulting or Obstructing public servant when suppressing riot, etc
195
195
Assaulting or Obstructing public servant when suppressing riot, etc
Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023
Chapter XI Of Offences Against The Public Tranquillity
⚖️
Reviewed by Advocate Aditi Babbar, Seasoned Advocate · Practicing since 31 years
📅 Updated 2026-04-10📚 Source: The Gazette of India
AssaultPublic ServantModerate
🗣️ Simple Explanation
What does this law say? Section 195 of BNS deals with attacking or obstructing a public servant who is trying to stop a riot or an unlawful assembly.
Why does this law exist? This law protects public servants and ensures they can do their jobs safely. It helps maintain order during disturbances.
Real-life impact If you assault a police officer trying to disperse a protest, you could face serious charges. This affects anyone involved in public disturbances.
What happens if you break this law? If you assault or obstruct a public servant, you could go to jail for up to three years and pay a fine of at least twenty-five thousand rupees, or both. If you threaten or attempt to obstruct, you could go to jail for up to one year, pay a fine, or both. Police can arrest without warrant. This section replaces the old Section 152 of IPC.
⚖️ Punishment

Imprisonment up to three years, or fine which shall not be less than twenty-five thousand rupees, or both.

💡 Real Life Example

Rahul attacks a police officer trying to stop a riot. He will face severe penalties. Amit threatens a police officer during a protest. He could face jail time and fines. Sneha obstructs a public servant trying to disperse an unlawful assembly. She will be charged under this section.

🛡️ KNOW YOUR RIGHTS
  • •Remain calm and do not resist arrest.
  • •Seek legal counsel immediately.
  • •Document any instances of police misconduct.
  • •Understand your right to a fair trial.
❓ FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Section 195 of BNS addresses the act of assaulting or obstructing a public servant who is performing their duty to disperse an unlawful assembly, suppress a riot, or stop an affray. The law aims to protect public servants and ensure they can maintain order during public disturbances. It ensures that those who interfere with public servants are held accountable.
The punishment depends on the nature of the offense. If you assault or obstruct a public servant, you could face imprisonment for up to three years and a fine of at least twenty-five thousand rupees, or both. If you threaten or attempt to obstruct, you could face imprisonment for up to one year, a fine, or both.
Whether this is a bailable offense depends on the specific actions and the charges. Assaulting a public servant is likely a non-bailable offense. Threatening or attempting to obstruct may be bailable. A lawyer can provide specific advice based on the details of your case.
Sources & References

📒 Legal text sourced from The Gazette of India & AdvocateKhoj Bare Acts Library

⚖️ Content reviewed by Advocate Aditi Babbar, Seasoned Advocate, with 31 years of legal practice

📚 Act Reference: Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 (replaces IPC)

Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a qualified advocate for specific legal matters.

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