Whoever is a member of an unlawful assembly, shall be punished with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to six months, or with fine, or with both.
IPC Section 143: Simplified Explanation
IPC Section 143 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) outlines the punishment for being a member of an unlawful assembly. It is a continuation of the definitions and descriptions provided in Sections 141 and 142. According to Section 143, whoever is a member of an unlawful assembly shall be punished with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to six months, or with a fine, or with both.
This section emphasizes the penal consequences for individuals who knowingly join or continue in an assembly of five or more persons deemed unlawful under the definitions in Section 141.
Is IPC Section 143 Bailable?
Yes, the offence under IPC Section 143 is bailable. Individuals charged under this section can secure bail from the police or the court, depending on the specifics of their case and any additional charges they might face.
IPC Section 143 Punishment
As specified, the punishment for being a member of an unlawful assembly under IPC Section 143 is imprisonment for up to six months, a fine, or both. The exact penalty is determined based on the severity of the assembly’s actions and the individual’s role within it.
Example of IPC Section 143
A real-life example of IPC Section 143 in action occurred during a local dispute over land ownership. A group of more than five people gathered to assert their claim over a piece of land, using force and threats to intimidate the lawful owners. The police declared the assembly unlawful due to its intention to commit criminal trespass and other offences. Those involved were arrested and charged under Section 143 for being members of an unlawful assembly, leading to legal proceedings where they faced potential imprisonment and fines.
