Introduction
The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023 has replaced the Indian Penal Code (IPC), 1860. While the essence of many offences remains the same, the section numbers have changed. Here’s a comparison of major offences related to persons under IPC and their equivalents in BNS.
🔹 Comparison Table: IPC vs BNS (Person-Related Offences)
| IPC Section | Offence | BNS Section | Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|
| IPC 299 | Culpable Homicide | BNS 99 | Definition largely same |
| IPC 300 | Murder | BNS 101 | Retained, language updated |
| IPC 302 | Punishment for Murder | BNS 101 | Same punishment (death/life imprisonment + fine) |
| IPC 304 | Culpable Homicide not amounting to Murder | BNS 100 | Renumbered |
| IPC 307 | Attempt to Murder | BNS 109 | Same offence, number changed |
| IPC 308 | Attempt to Commit Culpable Homicide | BNS 111 | Retained |
| IPC 319–326 | Hurt & Grievous Hurt | BNS 115–121 | Streamlined |
| IPC 354 | Assault/Criminal Force to Woman | BNS 74 | Expanded protection |
| IPC 354A | Sexual Harassment | BNS 74(2) | Defined more clearly |
| IPC 363 | Kidnapping | BNS 137 | Retained |
| IPC 364 | Kidnapping in order to Murder | BNS 138 | Same provision |
| IPC 365 | Kidnapping for Wrongful Confinement | BNS 139 | Retained |
| IPC 366 | Kidnapping/Abducting Woman to Compel Marriage | BNS 140 | Retained |
| IPC 375 | Rape (Definition) | BNS 63 | Expanded, includes digital penetration |
| IPC 376 | Punishment for Rape | BNS 64–70 | Split into multiple sections for clarity |
| IPC 377 | Unnatural Offences | — (Removed) | Decriminalized (post SC Navtej Johar case) |
| IPC 498A | Cruelty by Husband or Relatives | BNS 85 | Retained as it is |
🔹 Key Changes to Note
- Numbering Overhaul: IPC had scattered sections (299–377), while BNS reorganized them (63–140 approx).
- Women’s Safety Expanded: BNS uses clearer wording in offences like sexual harassment, rape, stalking.
- Digital Offences Covered: Rape definition under BNS includes technology-based penetration (important reform).
- Unnatural Offences (IPC 377): Removed under BNS, in line with Supreme Court rulings.
- Clarity & Modern Language: Outdated colonial terms replaced with simpler, modern phrasing.
Conclusion
The BNS aims to simplify and modernize criminal law, especially in cases related to persons. While the essence of IPC provisions remains the same, the new law provides better clarity, expanded definitions, and renumbered sections.
👉 Lawyers, students, and litigants should always cross-check both IPC and BNS to avoid confusion while drafting FIRs, charge sheets, or legal documents.