Riots are such circumstances wherein a group of people violently act against another group, thus causing humongous loss to lives, property and causes other social damages. The occurrence of one riot has a long-lasting effect on the lives of many people; people remain in a state of shock which ultimately hampers their normal lifestyle. The direct impact of it starts right from the small children and gradually affects the humans and the nation as a whole. In order to exercise control on such incidents, severe laws have been made to create deterrence in the minds of the people. The stringent kanooni dharas pertaining to riots are mentioned in the Indian Penal Code, 1860 under Chapter VIII, ‘Of Offences Against the Public Tranquility’. The reason why this topic ‘riot’ has been kept under this chapter is clearly evident from the title of the chapter itself because the occurrence of riots disturbs societal peace and public order.
India has been a witness to many tragic riots at different points of time and at different places. Bhima Koregaon incident, Muzaffarnagar, Vadodra, and Gujarat riots are the prominent ones that have made us realize the importance of these provisions. Nowadays, as there is a sudden spike in mob-lynching cases throughout the country, various pressure groups and citizens, in general, have demanded amendment in the criminal laws which also includes amendment in-laws that deal with riots.
147IPC Case Laws (Supreme Court and High Courts)
State of Andhra Pradesh v. Thakkidiram Reddy 1998 Cr. L.J. 2702 (SC)
FAQs about Riots and Section 147 IPC
Riots are violent situations where a group of people act aggressively against another group, resulting in significant loss of life, property, and other social damages. Riots have a long-lasting impact on the affected individuals, communities, and the nation as a whole. The shock and trauma from riots can disrupt normal lifestyles, and the aftermath affects people of all age groups.
The Indian Penal Code, 1860, has provisions to address offenses against public tranquility, including riots. The laws related to riots are found under Chapter VIII of the IPC, titled ‘Of Offences Against the Public Tranquility.’ The stringent provisions in this chapter aim to create deterrence and maintain societal peace and public order.
Riots are a matter of concern because they disrupt social harmony and can lead to loss of life and property. They create fear, mistrust, and tension among different communities, impacting the overall peace and stability of society. Riots can have far-reaching consequences on the psychological well-being and economic development of affected individuals and communities.
India has witnessed several tragic riots at different points in time and places. Some prominent riots include the Bhima Koregaon incident, Muzaffarnagar riots, Vadodara riots, and Gujarat riots. These incidents have highlighted the importance of having effective laws and provisions to deal with such situations.
Read also:- IPC Section 146: Rioting
IPC Section 147: Punishment for Rioting,IPC Section 147: Punishment for Rioting
