IPC 391 → BNS 310(1): Dacoity Definition

Quick Summary: IPC 391 vs BNS 310(1)

The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023, in force since 1 July 2024, has replaced the colonial-era Indian Penal Code (IPC) 1860. IPC 391 (Dacoity Definition) is one of the IPC's offences against property — theft, extortion, robbery, dacoity, criminal breach of trust, cheating, mischief and criminal trespass. The BNS keeps this structure and adds a distinct provision for snatching, renumbering dacoity definition as BNS 310(1).

What did IPC 391 cover?

IPC 391 dealt with dacoity definition — definition of dacoity (5 or more persons committing robbery). 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 310(1): What changed in the new law?

Consolidated definition. From 1 July 2024, new complaints relating to dacoity definition are filed under BNS Section 310(1), while cases registered earlier continue under the old IPC provision as per the saving clause of the BNS.

Punishment under BNS 310(1)

N/A - Definition

Practical implications for advocates, police & citizens

• Advocates: For dacoity definition, the dividing lines — theft versus extortion, cheating versus breach of trust — decide the charge; confirm the BNS 310(1) mapping before drafting.
• Police officers: Establish dishonest intention and the manner of taking; a new dacoity definition FIR cites BNS 310(1).
• Law students & citizens: With dacoity definition, value, the manner of taking and any force used determine which property offence applies and how serious it is.