IPC 115 → BNS 55: Abetment (Death/Life)

Quick Summary: IPC 115 vs BNS 55

The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023, in force since 1 July 2024, has replaced the colonial-era Indian Penal Code (IPC) 1860. IPC 115 (Abetment (Death/Life)) is among the offences re-enacted by the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, which reorganises and renumbers the old Indian Penal Code while keeping the core ingredients intact. Abetment (Death/Life) now maps to BNS 55, and the position below reflects the current bare act.

What did IPC 115 cover?

IPC 115 dealt with abetment (death/life) — abetment of offence punishable with death or imprisonment for life if offence not committed. Until 30 June 2024, every FIR and criminal trial for this offence was registered and prosecuted under this provision of the Indian Penal Code 1860.

BNS 55: What changed in the new law?

No major change. From 1 July 2024, new complaints relating to abetment (death/life) are filed under BNS Section 55, while cases registered earlier continue under the old IPC provision as per the saving clause of the BNS.

Punishment under BNS 55

Same

Practical implications for advocates, police & citizens

• Advocates: For abetment (death/life), cite the current provision BNS 55 rather than the repealed IPC 115 in all matters arising on or after 1 July 2024.
• Police officers: Register new abetment (death/life) FIRs under BNS 55; procedure follows the BNSS.
• Law students & citizens: Use the IPC 115 to BNS 55 mapping when checking your position on abetment (death/life) under the new law.