Bombay HC: Abuse Alone Does Not Amount To Religious Insult Under Section 295A IPC

The Bombay High Court ruled that mere abusive language or insult directed at a person does not amount to religious insult under Section 295A IPC unless it deliberately targets religion or religious beliefs. The Court emphasized the need to establish mens rea of deliberate and malicious intent to insult religion. This interpretation prevents misuse of Section 295A in ordinary disputes where religion is not central. The judgment safeguards free speech while ensuring genuine cases of religious insult remain punishable. It clarifies the scope of hate speech laws, protecting individuals from frivolous prosecution.