IPC Section 124A (Sedition/Treason) under the old Indian Penal Code 1860 is now covered under Section 152 of the new Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023, effective from 1 July 2024.
Previously Sedition, now acts endangering sovereignty
The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023, which came into force on 1 July 2024, has replaced the colonial-era Indian Penal Code (IPC) 1860. Under the new criminal law framework, IPC Section 124A (Sedition/Treason) is now mapped to BNS Section 152.
IPC 124A dealt with sedition/treason — previously sedition, now acts endangering sovereignty. Until 30 June 2024, every FIR and criminal trial relating to this offence in India was registered and prosecuted under this provision of the Indian Penal Code 1860.
Sedition replaced with 'Treason' - narrower definition. From 1 July 2024, all new criminal complaints relating to sedition/treason are filed under BNS Section 152. Cases registered before 1 July 2024 will, however, continue to be tried under the old IPC provisions as per the saving clause of the BNS.
Modified - Life imprisonment or up to 7 years
IPC Section 124A (Sedition/Treason) is now covered under Section 152 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023, effective from 1 July 2024.
Modified - Life imprisonment or up to 7 years
Sedition replaced with 'Treason' - narrower definition
No. The Indian Penal Code 1860 has been repealed and replaced by the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023 with effect from 1 July 2024. All ongoing cases under IPC continue, but new FIRs are registered under BNS.
Deep-dive legal analysis of the landmark Supreme Court case Kedarnath Singh vs. State of Bihar, which defined India's sedition law (Section 124A IPC).
Executive Summary & Deep Dive Analysis of Romila Thapar vs. Union of India with BNS comparison.
Executive Summary & Deep Dive Analysis of Kartar Singh vs. State of Punjab with BNS comparison.
Authoritative commentary on the new criminal laws — essential for advocates & students.