Section 124A, IPC 1860 (sedition) — the BNS 2023 contains no equivalent sedition offence; Section 152, BNS 2023 (acts endangering sovereignty, unity and integrity of India) is a substantively RECAST provision, not a renumbering (in force 1 Jul 2024). Pre-2024 sedition authorities apply to the new offence only with care (savings: Section 358, BNS 2023).
Whoever, by words, either spoken or written, or by signs, or by visible representation, or otherwise, brings or attempts to bring into hatred or contempt, or excites or attempts to excite disaffection towards, the Government established by law in India, shall be punished with imprisonment for life, to which fine may be added, or with imprisonment which may extend to three years, to which fine may be added, or with fine. Explanation 1 - The expression "disaffection" includes disloyalty and all feelings of enmity. Explanation 2 - Comments expressing disapprobation of the measures of the Government with a view to obtain their alteration by lawful means, without exciting or attempting to excite hatred, contempt or disaffection, do not constitute an offence under this section. Explanation 3 - Comments expressing disapprobation of the administrative or other action of the Government without exciting or attempting to excite hatred, contempt or disaffection, do not constitute an offence under this section. CLASSIFICATION OF OFFENCE Punishment -- Imprisonment for life and fine, or imprisonment for 3 years and fine, or fine -- Cognizable -- Non-bailable -- Triable by Court of Session -- Non-compoundable.