Section 148 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023
📘 Section 148 – Rioting
⚖️ What Section 148 says (in simple terms):
When a group of five or more people come together
With the common intention to use force or violence or to cause fear of violence,
And they commit an act of violence or disturbance in a public place or against public peace,
This act is called “rioting” and is punishable under this section.
🧾 Breakdown of Key Elements:
| Element | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Group of 5 or more persons | The act must be committed by a minimum of five people together. |
| Common Intention | All members share a common plan or purpose to commit violence or cause fear. |
| Use of Force or Violence | Actual physical force or violence used, or an act causing fear of such. |
| Public place or public peace | The disturbance affects the community, public order, or safety. |
⚠️ Punishment:
The law prescribes punishment which may include imprisonment, fine, or both.
The duration and severity depend on the seriousness of the riot and the harm caused.
🔍 Purpose of Section 148:
To maintain public order and peace.
To deter group violence that threatens safety and security.
To hold accountable those who collectively disturb peace through violence.
📝 Example:
Five or more people gather and violently attack a shop causing damage and panic — this qualifies as rioting.
This group can be charged under Section 148.
🚨 Important Notes:
The key factor is the common intention and group action.
A single person’s violent act does not amount to rioting; it must be by a group of five or more.
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