IPC Section 153
IPC Section 153 – Wantonly giving provocation with intent to cause riot
Text of Section 153 IPC:
Whoever wantonly gives provocation to any person, intending or knowing it to be likely that such provocation will cause the offence of riot, or knowing it to be likely that such provocation will cause one person to give provocation to another so as to cause a riot, shall be punished with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to two years, or with fine, or with both.
🔍 Explanation:
Section 153 deals with the act of intentionally provoking people in such a way that it is likely to cause a riot.
Key Elements of Section 153:
Wanton provocation:
The provocation must be wanton, meaning it is reckless or careless, without reasonable cause or justification.
It is deliberate or reckless behavior intended to stir up trouble.
Intention or knowledge:
The person either intends to cause a riot, or
Knows that their actions are likely to cause a riot.
Likely consequence:
The provocation should be such that it is likely to:
Cause a riot, OR
Cause one person to provoke another, which then leads to a riot.
Riot:
Riot is defined under Section 146 IPC — use of force or violence by an unlawful assembly to carry out their common object.
📌 Punishment:
Imprisonment (rigorous or simple) for up to 2 years, or
Fine, or
Both.
Practical Explanation:
The section aims to prevent reckless actions or words that can incite people to violence and public disorder.
For example, making inflammatory speeches, distributing provocative materials, or acting in a way that is likely to ignite communal tensions.
Example:
If a person shouts inflammatory slogans in a mixed community area knowing that it is likely to cause violent clashes, they can be charged under Section 153.
Related Sections:
Section 153A – Promoting enmity between different groups on grounds of religion, race, place of birth, etc.
Section 504 – Intentional insult with intent to provoke breach of peace.
Section 505 – Statements conducing to public mischief.
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