IPC 288 → BNS 290: Negligence (Building)

Quick Summary: IPC 288 vs BNS 290

The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023, in force since 1 July 2024, has replaced the colonial-era Indian Penal Code (IPC) 1860. IPC 288 covers negligence (building), within the IPC's offences affecting public health, safety, decency and morals — public nuisance, negligent acts endangering life, adulteration, obscenity and rash driving. The BNS keeps these and, in places, sharpens the penalties for negligence, renumbering negligence (building) as BNS 290.

What did IPC 288 cover?

IPC 288 dealt with negligence (building) — negligent conduct with respect to pulling down or repairing buildings. 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 290: What changed in the new law?

No major change. From 1 July 2024, new complaints relating to negligence (building) are filed under BNS Section 290, while cases registered earlier continue under the old IPC provision as per the saving clause of the BNS.

Punishment under BNS 290

Same - Up to 6 months

Practical implications for advocates, police & citizens

• Advocates: Negligence and public-harm offences like negligence (building) turn on the standard of care and causation — frame the defence around BNS 290 and the specific duty alleged.
• Police officers: Record the act endangering the public and any injury caused; a new negligence (building) FIR cites BNS 290.
• Law students & citizens: Everyday conduct — rash driving, negligent handling of fire or poison, selling adulterated goods — can attract the negligence (building) provision.