IPC 120A → BNS 61(1): Criminal Conspiracy

Quick Summary: IPC 120A vs BNS 61(1)

The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023, in force since 1 July 2024, has replaced the colonial-era Indian Penal Code (IPC) 1860. IPC 120A (Criminal Conspiracy) 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. Criminal Conspiracy now maps to BNS 61(1), and the position below reflects the current bare act.

What did IPC 120A cover?

IPC 120A dealt with criminal conspiracy — definition of criminal conspiracy. 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 61(1): What changed in the new law?

Consolidated into Section 61. From 1 July 2024, new complaints relating to criminal conspiracy are filed under BNS Section 61(1), while cases registered earlier continue under the old IPC provision as per the saving clause of the BNS.

Punishment under BNS 61(1)

N/A - Definition

Practical implications for advocates, police & citizens

• Advocates: For criminal conspiracy, cite the current provision BNS 61(1) rather than the repealed IPC 120A in all matters arising on or after 1 July 2024.
• Police officers: Register new criminal conspiracy FIRs under BNS 61(1); procedure follows the BNSS.
• Law students & citizens: Use the IPC 120A to BNS 61(1) mapping when checking your position on criminal conspiracy under the new law.