IPC 183 → BNS 218: Resistance to Taking Property

Quick Summary: IPC 183 vs BNS 218

The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023, in force since 1 July 2024, has replaced the colonial-era Indian Penal Code (IPC) 1860. IPC 183 (Resistance to Taking Property) 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 resistance to taking property as BNS 218.

What did IPC 183 cover?

IPC 183 dealt with resistance to taking property — resistance to the taking of property by the lawful authority of a public servant. 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 218: What changed in the new law?

No major change. From 1 July 2024, new complaints relating to resistance to taking property are filed under BNS Section 218, while cases registered earlier continue under the old IPC provision as per the saving clause of the BNS.

Punishment under BNS 218

Same - Up to 6 months

Practical implications for advocates, police & citizens

• Advocates: For resistance to taking property, check whether the conduct is prosecuted under BNS 218 or a special statute, and whether prior sanction is required.
• Police officers: Identify the precise duty obstructed or benefit obtained in the resistance to taking property matter and cite BNS 218 in the new FIR.
• Law students & citizens: Giving or taking illegal gratification, impersonating an official, or obstructing public duty — the kind of conduct behind resistance to taking property — all fall in this group.