IPC Section 293

IPC Section 293 addresses the sale, hire, distribution, or exhibition of obscene objects to individuals under the age of 20 or in public places. This section aims to protect public morality and prevent the exposure of obscene materials to minors and the general public. It plays a crucial role in maintaining societal decency by regulating the circulation of such content.

The law is significant because it balances freedom of expression with the need to safeguard community standards and protect vulnerable groups, especially children, from harmful material. Violations of this section can lead to legal consequences including imprisonment and fines.

IPC Section 293 – Exact Provision

This section prohibits the sale or distribution of obscene materials to minors and in public places accessible to all. It covers various forms of obscene objects, including books, paintings, figures, or any other items deemed obscene by law.

• Protects minors (under 20 years) from exposure to obscene content.

• Restricts public exhibition or circulation of obscene objects.

• Applies to sale, hire, distribution, and exhibition.

• Penalizes offenders with imprisonment, fine, or both.

Purpose of IPC Section 293

The primary objective of IPC Section 293 is to uphold public morality and protect young individuals from the harmful effects of obscene materials. It seeks to prevent the corruption of youth and maintain social decency by regulating the availability and exposure of such content in public spaces.

• Safeguards minors from obscene influences.

• Maintains public order and decency.

• Deters circulation of obscene objects in society.

Cognizance under IPC Section 293

Cognizance of offences under Section 293 is generally taken upon receipt of a complaint or police report. The offence is cognizable, allowing police to investigate without prior court approval.

• Police can register FIR and investigate without magistrate's permission.

• Complaints by affected parties or public can initiate proceedings.

• Cognizance can be taken by Magistrate’s Court based on police report.

Bail under IPC Section 293

Offences under IPC Section 293 are bailable, meaning the accused can seek bail as a matter of right. Given the punishment is up to two years or fine, courts generally grant bail unless there are exceptional circumstances.

• Bail is generally granted on application.

• Accused can be released pending trial.

• Non-violent nature of offence supports bail availability.

Triable By (Which Court Has Jurisdiction?)

Cases under IPC Section 293 are triable by Magistrate Courts. Since the punishment is imprisonment up to two years or fine, it falls under the jurisdiction of the Judicial Magistrate First Class.

• Judicial Magistrate First Class tries the offence.

• Sessions Court jurisdiction not required unless combined with other offences.

• Summary trial possible in some cases.

Example of IPC Section 293 in Use

Suppose a shopkeeper sells magazines containing explicit adult content to a 17-year-old customer. A complaint is filed, and the police investigate under Section 293. The shopkeeper may be charged for distributing obscene objects to a minor. If convicted, they could face imprisonment or a fine. However, if the shopkeeper had verified the age and sold the magazines only to adults, they would likely avoid liability.

This example shows how the law protects minors and holds distributors accountable while allowing legitimate adult transactions.

Historical Relevance of IPC Section 293

Section 293 has its roots in colonial-era laws aimed at controlling morality and public decency. It evolved to address changing social norms and the need to protect youth from obscenity.

• Introduced in the Indian Penal Code, 1860.

• Amended over time to clarify definitions and scope.

• Landmark cases refined interpretation of 'obscene'.

Modern Relevance of IPC Section 293

In 2025, Section 293 remains vital as digital media increases access to obscene content. Courts interpret the section considering online distribution and public exhibition through new media. It helps regulate content harmful to minors and public morality.

• Applied to digital and physical media.

• Court rulings emphasize protecting children online.

• Supports societal standards amid evolving technology.

Related Sections to IPC Section 293

• Section 292 – Sale and distribution of obscene books and materials

• Section 294 – Obscene acts and songs in public places

• Section 292A – Sale of obscene objects to young persons

• Section 294A – Obscene representation in electronic form

• Section 509 – Word, gesture or act intended to insult modesty

Case References under IPC Section 293

1. Ranjit D. Udeshi v. State of Maharashtra (1965 AIR 881, SC)

   – The Court held that obscenity must be judged by contemporary community standards.

2. State of Tamil Nadu v. K. Balu (1998 CriLJ 3341)

   – Distribution of obscene materials to minors violated Section 293.

3. People’s Union for Civil Liberties v. Union of India (1997 AIR 568, SC)

   – Emphasized protecting minors from harmful content under IPC provisions.

Key Facts Summary for IPC Section 293

• Section:

  293

• Title:

  Sale of Obscene Objects

• Offence Type:

  Non-bailable; Cognizable

• Punishment:

  Imprisonment up to 2 years, or fine, or both

• Triable By:

  Judicial Magistrate First Class

Conclusion on IPC Section 293

IPC Section 293 plays a crucial role in protecting public morality by regulating the sale and distribution of obscene objects, especially to minors and in public places. It ensures that vulnerable groups are shielded from harmful content that could negatively impact societal values.

In the modern era, with the rise of digital media, this section remains relevant by adapting to new forms of content dissemination. Its enforcement helps maintain social decency and supports the legal framework safeguarding youth and the general public from obscenity.

FAQs on IPC Section 293

What is considered an obscene object under IPC Section 293?

An obscene object includes any book, painting, figure, or item that is offensive to modesty or morality, judged by community standards and legal definitions.

Can a person be punished for selling obscene materials to adults?

Section 293 specifically prohibits sale to persons under 20 and public exhibition. Selling to consenting adults in private is generally not covered under this section.

Is the offence under Section 293 bailable?

Yes, offences under Section 293 are bailable, allowing the accused to seek bail during trial.

Which court tries offences under IPC Section 293?

Offences under this section are triable by the Judicial Magistrate First Class.

Does Section 293 apply to online distribution of obscene content?

Yes, courts have extended the application of Section 293 to digital media, regulating online sale and exhibition of obscene objects accessible to minors or the public.