Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023
Section 292
Punishment for public nuisance in cases not otherwise provided for
Whoever commits a public nuisance in any case not otherwise punishable by this Sanhita shall be punished with fine which may extend to one thousand rupees.
Why this exists
Public nuisance covers a huge range of everyday annoyances and dangers to the community — blocking a road, polluting a water source, making excessive noise — that don't fit into a named offence elsewhere in the code. This section acts as a general backstop so that any act causing common injury, danger, or annoyance to the public still has some penalty attached, even if it's a modest fine.
Common misconceptions
- Myth: Public nuisance is only a civil matter, not something the police can act on.
Fact: This section makes public nuisance a criminal offence punishable with a fine, in addition to any civil remedies available.