Indian Penal Code, 1860
Section 296
repealedDisturbing religious assembly
Whoever voluntarily causes disturbance to any assembly lawfully engaged in the performance of religious worship, or religious ceremonies, shall be punished with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to one year, or with fine, or with both.
Why this exists
Religious ceremonies often require calm and uninterrupted participation, and deliberate disruption can cause real distress to worshippers and risk larger conflict. This section protects the peaceful conduct of lawful religious gatherings from intentional interference. Under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, this offence continues under a renumbered section.