IPC 400 → BNS 310(6): Gang of Dacoits

Quick Summary: IPC 400 vs BNS 310(6)

The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023, in force since 1 July 2024, has replaced the colonial-era Indian Penal Code (IPC) 1860. IPC 400 (Gang of Dacoits) 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 gang of dacoits as BNS 310(6).

What did IPC 400 cover?

IPC 400 dealt with gang of dacoits — punishment for belonging to gang of dacoits. 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(6): What changed in the new law?

Merged into Dacoity section. From 1 July 2024, new complaints relating to gang of dacoits are filed under BNS Section 310(6), while cases registered earlier continue under the old IPC provision as per the saving clause of the BNS.

Punishment under BNS 310(6)

Same - Life or up to 10 years

Practical implications for advocates, police & citizens

• Advocates: For gang of dacoits, the dividing lines — theft versus extortion, cheating versus breach of trust — decide the charge; confirm the BNS 310(6) mapping before drafting.
• Police officers: Establish dishonest intention and the manner of taking; a new gang of dacoits FIR cites BNS 310(6).
• Law students & citizens: With gang of dacoits, value, the manner of taking and any force used determine which property offence applies and how serious it is.