Section 197 of BNS : Section 197: Imputations, assertions prejudicial to national integration.

Explanation using Example

Example 1:

Ravi, a popular social media influencer, posts a video on his channel claiming that members of a particular religious community cannot be loyal to the Constitution of India because of their religious beliefs. He further asserts that these individuals should not be trusted with any government positions. This video goes viral and causes widespread outrage and tension between different communities. Under Section 197(1)(a) and (1)(b) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita 2023, Ravi can be prosecuted for making imputations and assertions prejudicial to national integration and could face imprisonment for up to three years, a fine, or both.

Example 2:

During a public rally, a speaker, Mr. Sharma, advises the audience that people from a specific regional group should be denied their voting rights because they allegedly do not support the sovereignty and integrity of India. This statement is published in local newspapers and causes significant unrest and hostility between different regional groups. Under Section 197(1)(b) and (1)(c) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita 2023, Mr. Sharma can be prosecuted for advising the deprivation of rights and making assertions likely to cause disharmony, and he could face imprisonment for up to three years, a fine, or both.

Example 3:

A pamphlet is distributed in a temple during a religious ceremony, falsely claiming that a particular caste is plotting against the unity and security of India. This pamphlet incites anger and hatred among the worshippers, leading to violent clashes. Under Section 197(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita 2023, the individuals responsible for distributing the pamphlet can be prosecuted for committing the offence in a place of worship, and they could face imprisonment for up to five years and a fine.

Example 4:

An online news portal publishes an article with misleading information suggesting that a linguistic minority group is involved in activities that threaten the integrity of India. This article spreads rapidly on social media, causing widespread panic and mistrust among the general public. Under Section 197(1)(d) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita 2023, the editor and publisher of the news portal can be prosecuted for publishing false or misleading information jeopardizing the security of India, and they could face imprisonment for up to three years, a fine, or both.