IPC 304B → BNS 80: Dowry Death

Quick Summary: IPC 304B vs BNS 80

The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023, in force since 1 July 2024, has replaced the colonial-era Indian Penal Code (IPC) 1860. IPC 304B deals with dowry death, part of the IPC's offences affecting the human body — homicide, hurt, wrongful restraint, criminal force, kidnapping and sexual offences, the largest group in the code. The BNS renumbers dowry death as BNS 80 and, for several sexual and grievous-hurt offences, enhances the punishment.

What did IPC 304B cover?

IPC 304B dealt with dowry death — dowry death. 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 80: What changed in the new law?

Moved to Chapter on Offences Against Women and Children. From 1 July 2024, new complaints relating to dowry death are filed under BNS Section 80, while cases registered earlier continue under the old IPC provision as per the saving clause of the BNS.

Punishment under BNS 80

Same - Minimum 7 years to Life

Practical implications for advocates, police & citizens

• Advocates: For dowry death, the grading of the offence — and therefore bail and forum — turns on intention, the degree of hurt and aggravating factors; map IPC 304B carefully to BNS 80.
• Police officers: Record the nature and degree of injury and the weapon or means used; a new dowry death FIR is filed under BNS 80.
• Law students & citizens: Punishment for dowry death rises sharply with the seriousness of the harm and the victim — the IPC 304B to BNS 80 change does not lower it.