Section 353 of BNS : Section 353: Statements conducing to public mischief.

Explanation using Example

Example 1:

Ravi, a social media influencer, posts a video claiming that the Indian Army is planning a coup against the government. He has no evidence to support this claim and does it to gain more followers. This false information causes panic among the public and some soldiers start questioning their duties. Ravi's actions fall under Section 353(1)(a) and (b) of The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita 2023, and he can be punished with imprisonment up to three years, or with a fine, or both.

Example 2:

Priya, a resident of Delhi, circulates a message on WhatsApp stating that a particular religious community is planning to attack another community during a festival. This message is false and creates fear and tension between the communities. Priya's actions fall under Section 353(1)(c) and (2) of The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita 2023, and she can be punished with imprisonment up to three years, or with a fine, or both.

Example 3:

During a religious ceremony at a temple, Rajesh makes an announcement that people from a certain caste are planning to disrupt the event. This statement is false and creates enmity between different caste groups present at the ceremony. Rajesh's actions fall under Section 353(3) of The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita 2023, and he can be punished with imprisonment up to five years and a fine.

Example 4:

Anita, a journalist, publishes an article claiming that a particular language-speaking community is being discriminated against by the government. She has reasonable grounds to believe this information is true based on her research and publishes it in good faith without any intent to cause enmity or hatred. Anita's actions fall under the exception provided in Section 353, and she is not liable for any offence under this section.