IPC 185 → BNS 220: Illegal Bid

Quick Summary: IPC 185 vs BNS 220

The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023, in force since 1 July 2024, has replaced the colonial-era Indian Penal Code (IPC) 1860. IPC 185 (Illegal Bid) 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 illegal bid as BNS 220.

What did IPC 185 cover?

IPC 185 dealt with illegal bid — illegal purchase or bid for property offered for sale by authority of public servant. 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 220: What changed in the new law?

No major change. From 1 July 2024, new complaints relating to illegal bid are filed under BNS Section 220, while cases registered earlier continue under the old IPC provision as per the saving clause of the BNS.

Punishment under BNS 220

Same - Up to 1 month

Practical implications for advocates, police & citizens

• Advocates: For illegal bid, check whether the conduct is prosecuted under BNS 220 or a special statute, and whether prior sanction is required.
• Police officers: Identify the precise duty obstructed or benefit obtained in the illegal bid matter and cite BNS 220 in the new FIR.
• Law students & citizens: Giving or taking illegal gratification, impersonating an official, or obstructing public duty — the kind of conduct behind illegal bid — all fall in this group.