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Section 299 — Deliberate and malicious acts, intended to outrage religious feelings of any class by insulting its religion or religious beliefs
299
299
Deliberate and malicious acts, intended to outrage religious feelings of any class by insulting its religion or religious beliefs
Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023
Chapter XVI Of Offences Relating to Religion
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Reviewed by Advocate Aditi Babbar, Seasoned Advocate · Practicing since 31 years
📅 Updated 2026-04-10📚 Source: The Gazette of India
Religious OffenceHate SpeechModerate Offence
🗣️ Simple Explanation
What does this law say? Section 299 of the BNS says that if you intentionally insult a religion or its beliefs to hurt the religious feelings of people, you are breaking the law.
Why does this law exist? This law aims to protect religious feelings and prevent religious conflicts. It ensures that people respect each other's beliefs. It promotes harmony.
Real-life impact This law prevents people from making offensive statements or using symbols to insult a religion. It helps maintain peace and respect among different religious groups. It protects religious sentiments.
What happens if you break this law? If you break this law, you could go to jail for up to three years. You might also have to pay a fine, or both. The police can arrest you without a warrant.
⚖️ Punishment

Imprisonment up to three years, or fine, or both.

💡 Real Life Example

Amit posts offensive content on social media that insults a particular religion, intending to cause outrage. This violates Section 299. He could face imprisonment and a fine.

Sneha makes derogatory remarks about a religious practice with the intent to offend a community. This act is a violation of Section 299. She could be arrested and face legal consequences.

🛡️ KNOW YOUR RIGHTS
  • •Consult a lawyer immediately.
  • •Gather evidence to support your defense.
  • •Report any threats or harassment to the police.
  • •Seek legal aid if you cannot afford a lawyer.
❓ FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Section 299 of the BNS deals with intentionally insulting a religion or its beliefs to hurt religious feelings. This law aims to protect religious sentiments and prevent religious conflicts. It ensures that people respect each other's beliefs and promotes harmony.
If you violate Section 299, you could face up to three years in jail, a fine, or both. The police can arrest you without a warrant.
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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