IPC 205 → BNS 242: False Personation (Suit)

Quick Summary: IPC 205 vs BNS 242

The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023, in force since 1 July 2024, has replaced the colonial-era Indian Penal Code (IPC) 1860. IPC 205 addresses false personation (suit), part of the IPC's offences against public justice — false evidence, fabrication, screening offenders and similar interference with the justice process. These are carried into the BNS with the same structure, and false personation (suit) is now prosecuted as BNS 242, protecting the integrity of investigations and trials in its own right.

What did IPC 205 cover?

IPC 205 dealt with false personation (suit) — false personation for purpose of act or proceeding in suit or prosecution. 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 242: What changed in the new law?

No major change. From 1 July 2024, new complaints relating to false personation (suit) are filed under BNS Section 242, while cases registered earlier continue under the old IPC provision as per the saving clause of the BNS.

Punishment under BNS 242

Same - Up to 3 years

Practical implications for advocates, police & citizens

• Advocates: In a false personation (suit) matter, intention and the materiality of the false statement are decisive; ensure the complaint cites BNS 242 and meets the pre-conditions for prosecuting court-related offences.
• Police officers: Document the false statement or fabricated evidence precisely — the false personation (suit) offence is now BNS 242.
• Law students & citizens: Lying on oath, forging evidence or helping an offender escape — the conduct behind false personation (suit) — is punishable separately from the main case.