Wearing a military-style costume for a play, movie, or fancy dress party is illegal under this section.

The law requires 'intention that it may be believed' you are really a soldier — costumes worn for entertainment or clearly non-deceptive purposes don't meet this intent requirement.

Only wearing a full uniform counts; carrying a fake ID or badge doesn't matter.

The section covers both 'garb' (clothing) and 'token' (like a badge or medal) that resembles what real soldiers use, so fake badges or insignia can also lead to charges if used to deceive.

Indian Penal Code, 1860

Section 140

repealed

Wearing garb or carrying token used by soldier, sailor or airman

Whoever, not being a soldier, sailor or airman in the Military, Naval or Air service of the Government of India, wears any garb or carries any token resembling any garb or token used by such a soldier, sailor or airman with the intention that it may be believed that he is such a soldier, sailor or airman, shall be punished with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to three months, or with fine which may extend to five hundred rupees, or with both.§

Why this exists

This provision was part of the original 1860 Indian Penal Code, drafted during British colonial rule. Uniforms and insignia of the armed forces carry authority and public trust, so the law aimed to stop impersonators from misusing that trust for deception, fraud, or mischief. It protects the integrity of military identity and prevents confusion about who genuinely serves in the armed forces.

Common misconceptions

Myth: Wearing a military-style costume for a play, movie, or fancy dress party is illegal under this section.
Fact: The law requires 'intention that it may be believed' you are really a soldier — costumes worn for entertainment or clearly non-deceptive purposes don't meet this intent requirement.
Myth: Only wearing a full uniform counts; carrying a fake ID or badge doesn't matter.
Fact: The section covers both 'garb' (clothing) and 'token' (like a badge or medal) that resembles what real soldiers use, so fake badges or insignia can also lead to charges if used to deceive.