BNS Section 186 - Unlawful Assembly

An assembly of five or more persons is designated an "unlawful assembly" if the common object of the persons composing that assembly is to overawe by criminal force, or show of criminal force, the Central or any State Government or Parliament or the Legislature of any State.

Share:
Bailable, Cognizable

Official Text

“An assembly of five or more persons is designated an "unlawful assembly" if the common object of the persons composing that assembly is to overawe by criminal force, or show of criminal force, the Central or any State Government or Parliament or the Legislature of any State.”

Legal Analysis

Elements to Prove:

  • Assembly of five or more persons.
  • Common object to overawe government.
  • Use of criminal force or show of force.

Potential Defenses:

  • Lawful assembly.
  • No common object.
  • Peaceful gathering.

Practical Examples

What Constitutes the Offense:

Mob violence, riotous gatherings, assemblies with intent to intimidate government.

What Doesn't Constitute:

Peaceful protests, lawful assemblies, or authorized gatherings.

Punishment

Imprisonment up to 6 months, or Fine, or both

← Back to Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita