Imputations, assertions prejudicial to national integration are punishable under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023. The offence assumes graver proportions and carries higher punishment when it is committed in which of the following places ?

Under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, Section 197 deals with "Imputations, assertions prejudicial to national integration". While Section 197(1) prescribes punishment for such acts in general (imprisonment up to three years, or fine, or both), Section 197(2) specifically provides for enhanced punishment if the offence is committed in a place of worship or in any assembly engaged in religious worship or ceremonies. In such cases, the punishment extends to five years of imprisonment and a fine. This provision aims to maintain the sanctity of religious spaces and prevent their misuse for spreading communal disharmony or challenging the sovereignty and integrity of India. This section corresponds to Section 153B of the erstwhile Indian Penal Code (IPC).