CHAPTER XV of CrPC : CHAPTER XV: OFFENCES RELATING TO RELIGION

Explanation using Example

Example 1:

Scenario: Ramesh, a local resident, enters a temple and deliberately smashes an idol of a deity worshipped by the community.

Applicable Section: Section 295

Explanation: Ramesh's actions of destroying the idol with the intent to insult the religious sentiments of the community fall under Section 295. He can be punished with imprisonment for up to 2 years, a fine, or both. The offense is cognizable, non-bailable, and can be tried by any magistrate.

Example 2:

Scenario: During a public speech, Anil makes derogatory remarks about a particular religion, intending to provoke the followers of that religion.

Applicable Section: Section 295A

Explanation: Anil's malicious comments intended to insult the religious beliefs of a particular class fall under Section 295A. He can be punished with imprisonment for up to 3 years, a fine, or both. The offense is cognizable, non-bailable, and can be tried by a magistrate of the first class.

Example 3:

Scenario: During a religious ceremony at a mosque, Vijay starts shouting and causing a disturbance, disrupting the prayers.

Applicable Section: Section 296

Explanation: Vijay's actions of causing a disturbance to an assembly engaged in religious worship fall under Section 296. He can be punished with imprisonment for up to 1 year, a fine, or both. The offense is cognizable, bailable, and can be tried by any magistrate.

Example 4:

Scenario: Priya trespasses into a cemetery and disrupts a funeral ceremony by making loud noises and mocking the rituals.

Applicable Section: Section 297

Explanation: Priya's actions of trespassing and disturbing a funeral with the intention to insult the religion of the mourners fall under Section 297. She can be punished with imprisonment for up to 1 year, a fine, or both. The offense is cognizable, bailable, and can be tried by any magistrate.

Example 5:

Scenario: During a religious procession, Rajesh makes offensive gestures and places an insulting object in front of the participants to hurt their religious feelings.

Applicable Section: Section 298

Explanation: Rajesh's actions of making offensive gestures and placing an insulting object with the intention to wound the religious feelings of the participants fall under Section 298. He can be punished with imprisonment for up to 1 year, a fine, or both. The offense is non-cognizable, non-bailable, and can be tried by any magistrate.