IPC 91 → BNS 29: Excluded Acts

Quick Summary: IPC 91 vs BNS 29

The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023, in force since 1 July 2024, has replaced the colonial-era Indian Penal Code (IPC) 1860. IPC 91 (Excluded Acts) 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. Excluded Acts now maps to BNS 29, and the position below reflects the current bare act.

What did IPC 91 cover?

IPC 91 dealt with excluded acts — exclusion of acts which are offences independently of harm caused. 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 29: What changed in the new law?

Section number changed, principle same. From 1 July 2024, new complaints relating to excluded acts are filed under BNS Section 29, while cases registered earlier continue under the old IPC provision as per the saving clause of the BNS.

Punishment under BNS 29

N/A - General Exception

Practical implications for advocates, police & citizens

• Advocates: For excluded acts, cite the current provision BNS 29 rather than the repealed IPC 91 in all matters arising on or after 1 July 2024.
• Police officers: Register new excluded acts FIRs under BNS 29; procedure follows the BNSS.
• Law students & citizens: Use the IPC 91 to BNS 29 mapping when checking your position on excluded acts under the new law.