BNS Section 154 - Collecting Arms with Intent to Wage War
Whoever collects men, arms or ammunition or otherwise prepares to wage war with the intention of either waging or being prepared to wage war against the Government of Bharat, shall be punished with imprisonment for life or imprisonment of either description for a term not exceeding ten years, and shall also be liable to fine.
Official Text
“Whoever collects men, arms or ammunition or otherwise prepares to wage war with the intention of either waging or being prepared to wage war against the Government of Bharat, shall be punished with imprisonment for life or imprisonment of either description for a term not exceeding ten years, and shall also be liable to fine.”
Legal Analysis
Elements to Prove:
- Collection of men, arms, or ammunition.
- Preparation for waging war.
- Intention to wage war against the Government of Bharat.
Potential Defenses:
- No intention to wage war.
- Legitimate purposes for collection.
- Acting under lawful authority.
Practical Examples
What Constitutes the Offense:
Stockpiling weapons, training combatants, establishing training camps, acquiring military-grade equipment.
What Doesn't Constitute:
Legal gun ownership, sports shooting, or legitimate security training.
Punishment
Imprisonment for Life, or up to 10 years, and Fine