IPC 413 → BNS 317(4): Habitual Dealer

Quick Summary: IPC 413 vs BNS 317(4)

The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023, in force since 1 July 2024, has replaced the colonial-era Indian Penal Code (IPC) 1860. IPC 413 (Habitual Dealer) 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 habitual dealer as BNS 317(4).

What did IPC 413 cover?

IPC 413 dealt with habitual dealer — habitually dealing in stolen property. 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 317(4): What changed in the new law?

No major change. From 1 July 2024, new complaints relating to habitual dealer are filed under BNS Section 317(4), while cases registered earlier continue under the old IPC provision as per the saving clause of the BNS.

Punishment under BNS 317(4)

Same - Life or up to 10 years

Practical implications for advocates, police & citizens

• Advocates: For habitual dealer, the dividing lines — theft versus extortion, cheating versus breach of trust — decide the charge; confirm the BNS 317(4) mapping before drafting.
• Police officers: Establish dishonest intention and the manner of taking; a new habitual dealer FIR cites BNS 317(4).
• Law students & citizens: With habitual dealer, value, the manner of taking and any force used determine which property offence applies and how serious it is.