IPC 330 → BNS 120: Hurt for Confession

Quick Summary: IPC 330 vs BNS 120

The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023, in force since 1 July 2024, has replaced the colonial-era Indian Penal Code (IPC) 1860. IPC 330 deals with hurt for confession, 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 hurt for confession as BNS 120 and, for several sexual and grievous-hurt offences, enhances the punishment.

What did IPC 330 cover?

IPC 330 dealt with hurt for confession — voluntarily causing hurt to extort confession, or to compel restoration of property. 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 120: What changed in the new law?

Targeted at custodial violence. From 1 July 2024, new complaints relating to hurt for confession are filed under BNS Section 120, while cases registered earlier continue under the old IPC provision as per the saving clause of the BNS.

Punishment under BNS 120

Same - Up to 7 years

Practical implications for advocates, police & citizens

• Advocates: For hurt for confession, the grading of the offence — and therefore bail and forum — turns on intention, the degree of hurt and aggravating factors; map IPC 330 carefully to BNS 120.
• Police officers: Record the nature and degree of injury and the weapon or means used; a new hurt for confession FIR is filed under BNS 120.
• Law students & citizens: Punishment for hurt for confession rises sharply with the seriousness of the harm and the victim — the IPC 330 to BNS 120 change does not lower it.