IPC 35 → BNS 3(6): Criminal Knowledge

Quick Summary: IPC 35 vs BNS 3(6)

The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023, in force since 1 July 2024, has replaced the colonial-era Indian Penal Code (IPC) 1860. IPC 35 (Criminal Knowledge) is among the offences re-enacted by the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, which reorganises and renumbers the old Indian Penal Code while keeping the core ingredients intact. Criminal Knowledge now maps to BNS 3(6), and the position below reflects the current bare act.

What did IPC 35 cover?

IPC 35 dealt with criminal knowledge — act done with criminal knowledge or intention (joint liability). 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 3(6): What changed in the new law?

Crucial for proving intent in joint crimes. From 1 July 2024, new complaints relating to criminal knowledge are filed under BNS Section 3(6), while cases registered earlier continue under the old IPC provision as per the saving clause of the BNS.

Punishment under BNS 3(6)

Same Liability

Practical implications for advocates, police & citizens

• Advocates: For criminal knowledge, cite the current provision BNS 3(6) rather than the repealed IPC 35 in all matters arising on or after 1 July 2024.
• Police officers: Register new criminal knowledge FIRs under BNS 3(6); procedure follows the BNSS.
• Law students & citizens: Use the IPC 35 to BNS 3(6) mapping when checking your position on criminal knowledge under the new law.