Use of Word ‘Bastard’ During Heated Exchange Not Obscenity: Supreme Court

The Supreme Court has ruled that the mere use of abusive words like "bastard" during a heated argument does not constitute the offence of obscenity under Section 294 of IPC.

The Bench held that for an offence to be made out, the language must have a "sexual or prurient element" that appeals to lustful thoughts.

The Court observed that while such words may cause disgust or shock, they do not arouse prurient interest, especially given their common usage in modern-day conversations.

The Court clarified that mere abuse without a sexual undertone is insufficient for a criminal charge of obscenity.

[Sivakumar v. State rep. by Inspector of Police]