IPC 166 → BNS 198: Disobeying Law

Quick Summary: IPC 166 vs BNS 198

The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023, in force since 1 July 2024, has replaced the colonial-era Indian Penal Code (IPC) 1860. IPC 166 (Disobeying Law) belongs to the IPC's offences relating to public servants and lawful authority — conduct by or against public servants, election offences and contempt of official authority. The corruption-type provisions sit alongside the Prevention of Corruption Act, and the BNS renumbers the residual offence covering disobeying law as BNS 198.

What did IPC 166 cover?

IPC 166 dealt with disobeying law — public servant disobeying law, with intent to cause injury to any person. 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 198: What changed in the new law?

No major change. From 1 July 2024, new complaints relating to disobeying law are filed under BNS Section 198, while cases registered earlier continue under the old IPC provision as per the saving clause of the BNS.

Punishment under BNS 198

Same - Up to 1 year

Practical implications for advocates, police & citizens

• Advocates: For disobeying law, check whether the conduct is prosecuted under BNS 198 or a special statute, and whether prior sanction is required.
• Police officers: Identify the precise duty obstructed or benefit obtained in the disobeying law matter and cite BNS 198 in the new FIR.
• Law students & citizens: Giving or taking illegal gratification, impersonating an official, or obstructing public duty — the kind of conduct behind disobeying law — all fall in this group.