IPC 166B → BNS 200: Non-treatment

Quick Summary: IPC 166B vs BNS 200

The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023, in force since 1 July 2024, has replaced the colonial-era Indian Penal Code (IPC) 1860. IPC 166B (Non-treatment) belongs to the IPC's offences relating to public servants and lawful authority — conduct by or against public servants, election offences and contempt of official authority. The corruption-type provisions sit alongside the Prevention of Corruption Act, and the BNS renumbers the residual offence covering non-treatment as BNS 200.

What did IPC 166B cover?

IPC 166B dealt with non-treatment — punishment for non-treatment of victim by hospital. 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 200: What changed in the new law?

No major change. From 1 July 2024, new complaints relating to non-treatment are filed under BNS Section 200, while cases registered earlier continue under the old IPC provision as per the saving clause of the BNS.

Punishment under BNS 200

Same - Up to 1 year

Practical implications for advocates, police & citizens

• Advocates: For non-treatment, check whether the conduct is prosecuted under BNS 200 or a special statute, and whether prior sanction is required.
• Police officers: Identify the precise duty obstructed or benefit obtained in the non-treatment matter and cite BNS 200 in the new FIR.
• Law students & citizens: Giving or taking illegal gratification, impersonating an official, or obstructing public duty — the kind of conduct behind non-treatment — all fall in this group.