3.4. The true distinction between the areas of "law and order" and "public order" lies not merely in the nature C or quality of the act, but in the degree and extent of its reach upon society. Acts similar in nature, but committed in different contexts and circumstances, might cause different reactions. In one case it might affect specific individuals only, and therefore touches the problem of law D and order only, while in another it might affect public order. The act by itself, therefore, is not determinant of its own gravity. In its quality it may not differ from other similar acts, but in its potentiality, that is, in its impact on society, it may be very different. The two concepts have well E defined contours, it being well established that stray and unorganized crimes of theft and assault are not matters of public order since they do not tend to affect the even flow of public life. Infractions of law are bound in some measure to lead to disorder but every infraction of law F does not necessarily result in public disorder. Law and order represents the largest scale within which is the next circle representing public order and the smallest circle represents the security of State. "Law and order" comprehends disorders of less gravity than those G affecting "public order" just as "public order" comprehends disorders of less gravity than those affecting "security of State". In the instant case, the incidents related to public order situations. [Paras 1'1, 18] [773-C, D, E, F, G; 774-A, B]
