IPC 424 → BNS 323: Fraudulent Removal (General)

Quick Summary: IPC 424 vs BNS 323

The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023, in force since 1 July 2024, has replaced the colonial-era Indian Penal Code (IPC) 1860. IPC 424 (Fraudulent Removal (General)) 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 fraudulent removal (general) as BNS 323.

What did IPC 424 cover?

IPC 424 dealt with fraudulent removal (general) — dishonest or fraudulent removal or concealment of 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 323: What changed in the new law?

No major change. From 1 July 2024, new complaints relating to fraudulent removal (general) are filed under BNS Section 323, while cases registered earlier continue under the old IPC provision as per the saving clause of the BNS.

Punishment under BNS 323

Same - Up to 2 years

Practical implications for advocates, police & citizens

• Advocates: For fraudulent removal (general), the dividing lines — theft versus extortion, cheating versus breach of trust — decide the charge; confirm the BNS 323 mapping before drafting.
• Police officers: Establish dishonest intention and the manner of taking; a new fraudulent removal (general) FIR cites BNS 323.
• Law students & citizens: With fraudulent removal (general), value, the manner of taking and any force used determine which property offence applies and how serious it is.