Added to a Whatsapp group where people share hate messages about a religion? Spreading such hate speech is a crime under Section 153A of the IPC.

Insulting Religion

Last updated on Jun 8, 2022

If someone intentionally and with malice, says or writes something that insults your religion or religious beliefs, it is considered a crime under the law. For example, if someone insults your religion by calling it unpleasant names through a Facebook post.

These acts are punishable with jail time  of up to three years or a fine or both.1

  1. Section 295A, The Indian Penal Code.[]

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Comments

Unknown

January 19, 2024

On date 18 January 2024 our one teacher gill miss was teaching geography and in that the topic was some Israel and that teacher told that how Israel and other countries are developing why our country is not developing because they believe in only one God and told that in pk movie nay stone. if there in haldi kumkum they are making the god in short she told that in Hindu religion people make any stone as god …..please see this complaint

Alka Manral

April 18, 2024

In case of such a conflict, you can firstly approach your school’s administration for mediation regarding such conflict and if you still are not satisfied with such mediation, then you can file a police complaint. The procedure of filing an FIR is, the nature of the offense will be related to passing of insensitive comments towards a particular religion which is punishable under Section 295A of Indian Penal Code.
1. Visit the Police Station:
• Go to the police station that has authority over the area where the offense took place.
• Notify the Officer-in-Charge:
2. Inform the officer in charge or any available officer about the offense. You can provide the information orally or in writing.
• Provide Necessary Information:
1. Clearly and succinctly describe the incident, including:
• Date and time of the offense
• Location of the offense
• Nature of the offense
• Details of the victim(s) and perpetrator(s) if known
• Presence of any witnesses
• Any available evidence
• Review and Sign the FIR:
1. The officer will record your information and prepare the First Information Report (FIR).
2. Carefully review the FIR for accuracy and completeness.
3. Sign the FIR once you’ve confirmed the details.
• Obtain a Copy:
1. You have the right to receive a free copy of the FIR. Request it from the police officer.
• Understand Your Rights:
1. You can lodge an FIR regardless of your relationship to the victim or the offense.
2. The police cannot reject registering an FIR for a cognizable offense. If they do, you can file a complaint with the Superintendent of Police or approach the magistrate.
Additional Information:
• In some states, you can file an FIR online through citizen portals.
• If you can’t visit the police station, you can inform them via phone or email.
• Keep copies of any evidence you have, such as medical reports or witness statements.
• Seek legal advice if needed during the FIR filing process or if you have concerns.
Remember:
• Filing an FIR is crucial for initiating an investigation and seeking justice.
• Provide accurate and comprehensive details to the police.
• Know your rights and assert them if necessary

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