IPC 373 → BNS 99: Buying Minor (Prostitution)

Quick Summary: IPC 373 vs BNS 99

The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023, in force since 1 July 2024, has replaced the colonial-era Indian Penal Code (IPC) 1860. IPC 373 deals with buying minor (prostitution), 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 buying minor (prostitution) as BNS 99 and, for several sexual and grievous-hurt offences, enhances the punishment.

What did IPC 373 cover?

IPC 373 dealt with buying minor (prostitution) — buying minor for purposes of prostitution, etc.. 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 99: What changed in the new law?

No major change. From 1 July 2024, new complaints relating to buying minor (prostitution) are filed under BNS Section 99, while cases registered earlier continue under the old IPC provision as per the saving clause of the BNS.

Punishment under BNS 99

Same - Up to 10 years

Practical implications for advocates, police & citizens

• Advocates: For buying minor (prostitution), the grading of the offence — and therefore bail and forum — turns on intention, the degree of hurt and aggravating factors; map IPC 373 carefully to BNS 99.
• Police officers: Record the nature and degree of injury and the weapon or means used; a new buying minor (prostitution) FIR is filed under BNS 99.
• Law students & citizens: Punishment for buying minor (prostitution) rises sharply with the seriousness of the harm and the victim — the IPC 373 to BNS 99 change does not lower it.