IPC 82 → BNS 20: Child Under 7

Quick Summary: IPC 82 vs BNS 20

The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023, in force since 1 July 2024, has replaced the colonial-era Indian Penal Code (IPC) 1860. IPC 82 (Child Under 7) is among the offences re-enacted by the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, which reorganises and renumbers the old Indian Penal Code while keeping the core ingredients intact. Child Under 7 now maps to BNS 20, and the position below reflects the current bare act.

What did IPC 82 cover?

IPC 82 dealt with child under 7 — act of a child under seven years of age. 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 20: What changed in the new law?

Age of immunity remains 7 years. From 1 July 2024, new complaints relating to child under 7 are filed under BNS Section 20, while cases registered earlier continue under the old IPC provision as per the saving clause of the BNS.

Punishment under BNS 20

N/A - General Exception

Practical implications for advocates, police & citizens

• Advocates: For child under 7, cite the current provision BNS 20 rather than the repealed IPC 82 in all matters arising on or after 1 July 2024.
• Police officers: Register new child under 7 FIRs under BNS 20; procedure follows the BNSS.
• Law students & citizens: Use the IPC 82 to BNS 20 mapping when checking your position on child under 7 under the new law.