Section 267 BNS: Intentional insult or interruption to public servant sitting in judicial proceeding

Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023

Section 267 BNS at a Glance

Section 267 BNS deals with intentional insult or interruption to public servant sitting in judicial proceeding. It is bailable and non-cognizable; it replaced Section 228 IPC on 1 July 2024.

Punishment

Simple imprisonment for a term which may extend to six months.

Bailable ⓘNon-Cognizable ⓘNon-Compoundable ⓘ🏛️ The Court in which the offence is committed, subject to the provisions of Chapter XXVI; or if not committed in a Court, Any Magistrate ⓘ
IPC Equivalent

Section 228 →

Section 267 BNS Bare Act Text

267. Intentional insult or interruption to public servant sitting in judicial proceeding

Whoever, intentionally offers any insult, or causes any interruption to any public servant, while such public servant is sitting in any stage of a judicial proceeding, shall be punished with simple imprisonment for a term which may extend to six months, or with fine which may extend to five thousand rupees, or with both.

Source: Section 267, Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023

Section 267 BNS in Simple Words

Section 267 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) this provision deals with conduct that disturbs the dignity and smooth conduct of a judicial proceeding. It applies when a person intentionally insults a public servant while that public servant is sitting in a court or other judicial proceeding, or intentionally interrupts that proceeding. The focus is on deliberate conduct, not accidental behaviour or a mere difference of opinion. In practical terms, this law protects judges and other public servants when they are acting in a judicial capacity.

A heated outburst, disrespectful remarks, or deliberate disruption in court can attract this provision if the required intent is proved. It matters because court proceedings must remain orderly for justice to be done properly. Even if the person is unhappy with the case outcome or the court process, the proper remedy is through lawful procedure, not disruption.

Ingredients of Section 267 BNS

  • Public servant sitting in any stage of a judicial proceeding
  • Intentional insult or interruption to that public servant
  • Simple imprisonment up to six months or enhanced fine up to five thousand rupees or both

Punishment Under Section 267 BNS

Imprisonment

Simple imprisonment for a term which may extend to six months.

Fine

Fine which may extend to five thousand rupees, or both imprisonment and fine.

Bailable ⓘNon-Cognizable ⓘNon-Compoundable ⓘ🏛️ The Court in which the offence is committed, subject to the provisions of Chapter XXVI; or if not committed in a Court, Any Magistrate ⓘ

Intentionally insulting or interrupting a public servant sitting in a judicial proceeding carries simple imprisonment up to six months, or fine up to five thousand rupees, or both.

Example of Section 267 BNS

During the hearing of a civil suit in Nashik, Divya intentionally shouts abusive words at the presiding Civil Judge after her application is rejected. Divya is liable under Section 267 BNS for intentionally insulting a public servant sitting in a judicial proceeding.

When Section 267 BNS Does Not Apply

  • The public servant was not sitting in any stage of a judicial proceeding when the incident took place
  • The accused did not intentionally offer any insult or cause any interruption to the public servant

Section 267 BNS in the IPC (Previous Law)

Section 267 BNS replaces Section 228 IPC from the old criminal code.

Section 228 IPC is now Section 267 BNS. The maximum fine is increased from one thousand rupees to five thousand rupees, while the elements, simple imprisonment up to six months, and court procedures remain unchanged.

View IPC Section 228 →

FAQs on Section 267 BNS

Does Section 267 BNS apply if someone argues loudly in court?▼

It can apply if the conduct is intentional and amounts to insult or interruption of the proceeding. A mere heated exchange is not enough by itself; the prosecution must show deliberate disruption or insult. Courts usually look at the exact words, conduct, and context.

Who is protected under Section 267 BNS?▼

The provision protects a public servant who is sitting in a judicial proceeding. This usually includes judges and other authorised officers acting in their judicial role. The key point is that the person must be functioning in a judicial capacity at that time.

Is the offence under Section 267 BNS bailable?▼

Yes, it is generally bailable. That means the accused can usually seek bail as a matter of right, subject to procedure and court conditions. It is also a relatively minor offence compared with serious criminal charges.

Can Section 267 BNS be used for a mistake or accidental remark?▼

No, intention is essential. If the remark or interruption was accidental, careless, or not meant to insult or disrupt, this section should not apply. The prosecution must prove deliberate conduct.

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Disclaimer: This is for informational purposes only. Always consult a qualified advocate for legal advice.

Sources: Bare Act Text, Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 · Last updated: 16 Oct 2026 ·