IPC 171 → BNS 205: Wearing Garb (Fraud)

Quick Summary: IPC 171 vs BNS 205

The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023, in force since 1 July 2024, has replaced the colonial-era Indian Penal Code (IPC) 1860. IPC 171 (Wearing Garb (Fraud)) 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 wearing garb (fraud) as BNS 205.

What did IPC 171 cover?

IPC 171 dealt with wearing garb (fraud) — wearing garb or carrying token used by public servant with fraudulent intent. 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 205: What changed in the new law?

No major change. From 1 July 2024, new complaints relating to wearing garb (fraud) are filed under BNS Section 205, while cases registered earlier continue under the old IPC provision as per the saving clause of the BNS.

Punishment under BNS 205

Same - Up to 3 months

Practical implications for advocates, police & citizens

• Advocates: For wearing garb (fraud), check whether the conduct is prosecuted under BNS 205 or a special statute, and whether prior sanction is required.
• Police officers: Identify the precise duty obstructed or benefit obtained in the wearing garb (fraud) matter and cite BNS 205 in the new FIR.
• Law students & citizens: Giving or taking illegal gratification, impersonating an official, or obstructing public duty — the kind of conduct behind wearing garb (fraud) — all fall in this group.