IPC Section 158: Being Hired for Unlawful Assembly or Riot

1. State the code

Section 158 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) deals with the offense of being hired for an unlawful assembly or riot.

2. Explain it

This section states that whoever, for the purpose of promoting, or abetting, any unlawful assembly or riot, hires or engages any person to join such assembly or riot, shall be punished with imprisonment for a term which may extend to two years, or with fine, or with both.

3. Illustrate it

• If a person hires a group of individuals to disrupt a peaceful rally or demonstration, they may be charged under this section.
• Another example would be if someone pays a group to attack a business or an individual, causing a riot.

4. Common Questions and Answers

Q: What is considered an “unlawful assembly”?

A: An unlawful assembly is a gathering of people with a common object to commit an unlawful act or to do a lawful act in an unlawful manner.

Q: What is considered a “riot”?

A: A riot is an unlawful assembly that uses force or violence to achieve its purpose.

Q: What are the penalties for violating Section 158?

A: Imprisonment for up to two years, a fine, or both.