IPC 195A → BNS 232: Threatening Witness

Quick Summary: IPC 195A vs BNS 232

The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023, in force since 1 July 2024, has replaced the colonial-era Indian Penal Code (IPC) 1860. IPC 195A addresses threatening witness, part of the IPC's offences against public justice — false evidence, fabrication, screening offenders and similar interference with the justice process. These are carried into the BNS with the same structure, and threatening witness is now prosecuted as BNS 232, protecting the integrity of investigations and trials in its own right.

What did IPC 195A cover?

IPC 195A dealt with threatening witness — threatening any person to give false evidence. 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 232: What changed in the new law?

No major change. From 1 July 2024, new complaints relating to threatening witness are filed under BNS Section 232, while cases registered earlier continue under the old IPC provision as per the saving clause of the BNS.

Punishment under BNS 232

Same - 7 years

Practical implications for advocates, police & citizens

• Advocates: In a threatening witness matter, intention and the materiality of the false statement are decisive; ensure the complaint cites BNS 232 and meets the pre-conditions for prosecuting court-related offences.
• Police officers: Document the false statement or fabricated evidence precisely — the threatening witness offence is now BNS 232.
• Law students & citizens: Lying on oath, forging evidence or helping an offender escape — the conduct behind threatening witness — is punishable separately from the main case.