Prejudicial act by words, etc

¹⁵⁶[Whoever-

(a) by words, either spoken or written, or by signs or by visible representation or otherwise does anything, or

(b) makes, publishes or circulates any statement, rumour or report,

which is, or which is likely to be prejudicial to the interests of the security of Bangladesh or public order, or to the maintenance of friendly relations of Bangladesh with foreign states or to the maintenance of supplies and services essential to the community, shall be punished with imprisonment for a term which may extend to seven years, or with fine, or with both.]