IPC Section 296: Disturbing religious assembly
Indian Penal Code, 1860 · Chapter 15: Offences relating to Religion
Repealed on 1 July 2024 and replaced by the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 (BNS).
¶Whoever voluntarily causes disturbance to any assembly lawfully engaged in the performance of religious worship, or religious ceremonies, shall be punished with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to one year, or with fine, or with both.
¶CLASSIFICATION OF OFFENCE
¶Punishment-Imprisonment for 1 year, or fine, or both-Cognizable-Bailable-Triable by any Magistrate-Non-compoundable.
Study: explanations and related material
Now BNS 300 (same provision). IPC → BNS converterSource: BPR&D BNS–IPC corresponding section table (UP Police, 2024-06-28), p17
Official reference: Delhi District & Sessions Judge: government historical reference — source link checked: 2 October 2026.Recorded edition / snapshot date: 2024-06-30.Mobile-app reference import; the recorded snapshot date is not a fresh legal-currency guarantee. The linked government text is an independent authoritative reference, not certification that this website reproduces the same edition. The source link was checked, not every provision or subsequent amendment. Check commencement notifications, savings and jurisdiction-specific variations separately. Historical code retained for reference; read the repeal/savings provisions in the successor code.
This text is for reference, not legal advice. Consult the official source for the authoritative text.
Other sections in this chapter
- 295. Injuring or defiling place of worship with intent to insult the religion of any class
- 295A. Deliberate and malicious acts, intended to outrage religious feelings or any class by insulting its religion or religious beliefs
- 297. Trespassing on burial places, etc
- 298. Uttering, words, etc., with deliberate intent to wound the religious feelings of any person