What replaced the IPC? (BNS 2023 explained)

⚡ Short answerFrom 1 July 2024, three new criminal laws replaced the colonial codes: the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023 replaced the Indian Penal Code, the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) 2023 replaced the CrPC, and the Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam (BSA) 2023 replaced the Indian Evidence Act. Section numbers changed — for example, IPC 420 (cheating) is now BNS 318(4).

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The three new codes

BNS covers offences and punishments, BNSS covers criminal procedure (FIR, arrest, bail, trial), and BSA covers evidence. They modernise language, add offences like organised crime and mob lynching, and introduce timelines and electronic processes.

What it means for you

Crimes committed before 1 July 2024 are still tried under the IPC/CrPC; new cases use the BNS/BNSS/BSA. If you have an old IPC section, use an IPC-to-BNS mapping to find its current equivalent.

Related questions

Is IPC still valid after BNS?

The IPC continues to apply to offences committed before 1 July 2024 and to pending cases. For anything on or after that date, the BNS applies. Both coexist during the transition.

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General information for AY 2026-27, not professional advice. Rules change with each Finance Act / notification and depend on your facts — verify with a licensed CA or advocate before acting.