What Is BNS Section 191?

Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 - Section 191: Rioting

(1) Whenever force or violence is used by an unlawful assembly, or by any member thereof, in prosecution of the common object of such assembly, every member of such assembly is guilty of the offence of rioting.

(2) Whoever is guilty of rioting shall be punished with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to two years, or with fine, or with both.

(3) Whoever is guilty of rioting, being armed with a deadly weapon or with anything which, used as a weapon of offence, is likely to cause death, shall be punished with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to five years, or with fine, or with both.

Brief Detail

BNS Section 191 outlines the legal consequences of rioting. It states that:

• All members of an unlawful assembly are guilty if violence is used in pursuit of their common purpose.
• Punishments for rioting include up to two years of imprisonment, fines, or both.
• Increased penalties apply for rioting with a deadly weapon, with imprisonment extending up to five years.

What constitutes rioting under BNS Section 191?

Rioting occurs when force or violence is used by an unlawful assembly or its members in pursuit of their common object.

What are the penalties for being guilty of rioting?

The penalty for rioting can include imprisonment for up to two years, a fine, or both.

Are there harsher penalties for certain types of rioting?

Yes, if the individual is armed with a deadly weapon or anything that could cause death, the punishment can extend to five years of imprisonment, a fine, or both.

Does every member of an unlawful assembly face the same charges if rioting occurs?

Yes, every member is considered guilty of the offence of rioting if violence is used by the assembly.

Example

• Example 1: A group of individuals gathers unlawfully and begins to vandalize property. As they use violence in pursuit of their common goal, every member of the group can be charged with rioting.
• Example 2: If a protest turns violent and participants are armed with sticks or any object that could cause harm, all those involved can face charges under BNS Section 191.
• Example 3: In a scenario where a person participates in a riot while carrying a firearm, they may face up to five years of imprisonment due to the enhanced penalty for rioting with a deadly weapon.

Summary

BNS Section 191 addresses the crime of rioting, defining it as the use of force or violence by members of an unlawful assembly. It establishes penalties for general rioting, with stricter consequences for those armed with deadly weapons. The law holds all members of the assembly accountable if violence occurs, emphasizing the collective responsibility in such unlawful actions.