IPC 214 → BNS 251: Gift to Screen (Restoration)

Quick Summary: IPC 214 vs BNS 251

The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023, in force since 1 July 2024, has replaced the colonial-era Indian Penal Code (IPC) 1860. IPC 214 addresses gift to screen (restoration), 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 gift to screen (restoration) is now prosecuted as BNS 251, protecting the integrity of investigations and trials in its own right.

What did IPC 214 cover?

IPC 214 dealt with gift to screen (restoration) — offering gift or restoration of property in consideration of screening offender. 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 251: What changed in the new law?

No major change. From 1 July 2024, new complaints relating to gift to screen (restoration) are filed under BNS Section 251, while cases registered earlier continue under the old IPC provision as per the saving clause of the BNS.

Punishment under BNS 251

Same

Practical implications for advocates, police & citizens

• Advocates: In a gift to screen (restoration) matter, intention and the materiality of the false statement are decisive; ensure the complaint cites BNS 251 and meets the pre-conditions for prosecuting court-related offences.
• Police officers: Document the false statement or fabricated evidence precisely — the gift to screen (restoration) offence is now BNS 251.
• Law students & citizens: Lying on oath, forging evidence or helping an offender escape — the conduct behind gift to screen (restoration) — is punishable separately from the main case.