←
Section 354 — Act caused by inducing person to believe that he will be rendered an object of Divine displeasure
354
354
Act caused by inducing person to believe that he will be rendered an object of Divine displeasure
Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 • Previously IPC Section 499
Chapter XIX Of Criminal Intimidation, Insult, Annoyance, Defamation, Etc
⚖️
Reviewed by Advocate Aditi Babbar, Seasoned Advocate · Practicing since 31 yearsReligious FearManipulationCoercionThreatMinorPreviously IPC 499
🗣️ Simple Explanation
What does this law say?
Section 354 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) deals with causing someone to act based on religious fear. If you try to make someone do or not do something by making them believe they will face divine punishment, you are breaking this law. This section replaces the old Section 499 of the IPC.
Why does this law exist?
This law protects people from manipulation through religious fear. It ensures people make choices freely, without being coerced by threats of divine displeasure. It promotes individual autonomy.
Real-life impact
This law prevents people from being forced into actions based on religious beliefs. It protects individuals from being exploited. It ensures people can make their own choices about their actions.
What happens if you break this law?
If you try to manipulate someone with religious threats, you could face up to one year in jail. You might also have to pay a fine, or both. Police can arrest without warrant.
⚖️ Punishment
Imprisonment up to one year, or fine, or both.
💡 Real Life Example
Rahul threatens Priya that God will punish her if she doesn't give him money. Rahul could face legal consequences. Amit tells Sneha that she will be cursed if she reports a crime. Amit could be arrested. A person uses religious fear to force someone to sign a document. The person could face imprisonment.
🛡️ KNOW YOUR RIGHTS
- •Report the threats to the police immediately.
- •Gather evidence of the threats and manipulation.
- •Seek legal advice from a lawyer.
- •You have the right to legal aid if you cannot afford a lawyer.
- •Do not give in to threats; seek help.
❓ FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Section 354 of the BNS addresses causing someone to act based on religious fear. If you try to make someone do or not do something by making them believe they will face divine punishment, you are violating this law. This section replaces the old Section 499 of the IPC.
The punishment for using religious fear to manipulate someone can be up to one year in jail. You might also have to pay a fine, or both. The severity of the punishment depends on the nature of the threat and the impact on the victim. This section replaces the old Section 499 of the IPC.
Yes, this offense is generally bailable. This means the police cannot arrest without a warrant. However, the court will decide whether to grant bail based on the specifics of the case. This section replaces the old Section 499 of the IPC.
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.
Was this helpful?