IPC 217 → BNS 255: Public Servant Disobeying

Quick Summary: IPC 217 vs BNS 255

The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023, in force since 1 July 2024, has replaced the colonial-era Indian Penal Code (IPC) 1860. IPC 217 addresses public servant disobeying, 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 public servant disobeying is now prosecuted as BNS 255, protecting the integrity of investigations and trials in its own right.

What did IPC 217 cover?

IPC 217 dealt with public servant disobeying — public servant disobeying direction of law with intent to save person from punishment or property from forfeiture. 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 255: What changed in the new law?

No major change. From 1 July 2024, new complaints relating to public servant disobeying are filed under BNS Section 255, while cases registered earlier continue under the old IPC provision as per the saving clause of the BNS.

Punishment under BNS 255

Same - Up to 2 years

Practical implications for advocates, police & citizens

• Advocates: In a public servant disobeying matter, intention and the materiality of the false statement are decisive; ensure the complaint cites BNS 255 and meets the pre-conditions for prosecuting court-related offences.
• Police officers: Document the false statement or fabricated evidence precisely — the public servant disobeying offence is now BNS 255.
• Law students & citizens: Lying on oath, forging evidence or helping an offender escape — the conduct behind public servant disobeying — is punishable separately from the main case.