Section 302 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) applies when a person intentionally hurts the religious sentiments of another person through words, sounds, gestures, or objects.
This section ensures protection of religious harmony and mutual respect among individuals of different faiths.
Punishment:
Whoever deliberately intends to wound religious feelings shall be punished with imprisonment of up to one year, or with a fine, or both.
How It Protects:
This section prevents deliberate insults to religious beliefs and ensures that no person is subjected to offensive actions targeting their faith.
It upholds the constitutional right to religious freedom and harmony.
Example:
If a person publicly insults a religious symbol to provoke sentiments, they are guilty under this section.
Similarly, if someone places an offensive object in a place of worship to hurt religious beliefs, they can be prosecuted.
