IPC 371 → BNS 145: Habitual Slaves

Quick Summary: IPC 371 vs BNS 145

The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023, in force since 1 July 2024, has replaced the colonial-era Indian Penal Code (IPC) 1860. IPC 371 deals with habitual slaves, 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 habitual slaves as BNS 145 and, for several sexual and grievous-hurt offences, enhances the punishment.

What did IPC 371 cover?

IPC 371 dealt with habitual slaves — habitual dealing in slaves. 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 145: What changed in the new law?

No major change. From 1 July 2024, new complaints relating to habitual slaves are filed under BNS Section 145, while cases registered earlier continue under the old IPC provision as per the saving clause of the BNS.

Punishment under BNS 145

Same - Life or up to 10 years

Practical implications for advocates, police & citizens

• Advocates: For habitual slaves, the grading of the offence — and therefore bail and forum — turns on intention, the degree of hurt and aggravating factors; map IPC 371 carefully to BNS 145.
• Police officers: Record the nature and degree of injury and the weapon or means used; a new habitual slaves FIR is filed under BNS 145.
• Law students & citizens: Punishment for habitual slaves rises sharply with the seriousness of the harm and the victim — the IPC 371 to BNS 145 change does not lower it.