IPC 276 → BNS 278: Sale of Drug as Different

Quick Summary: IPC 276 vs BNS 278

The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023, in force since 1 July 2024, has replaced the colonial-era Indian Penal Code (IPC) 1860. IPC 276 covers sale of drug as different, within the IPC's offences affecting public health, safety, decency and morals — public nuisance, negligent acts endangering life, adulteration, obscenity and rash driving. The BNS keeps these and, in places, sharpens the penalties for negligence, renumbering sale of drug as different as BNS 278.

What did IPC 276 cover?

IPC 276 dealt with sale of drug as different — sale of drug as a different drug or preparation. 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 278: What changed in the new law?

No major change. From 1 July 2024, new complaints relating to sale of drug as different are filed under BNS Section 278, while cases registered earlier continue under the old IPC provision as per the saving clause of the BNS.

Punishment under BNS 278

Same - Up to 6 months

Practical implications for advocates, police & citizens

• Advocates: Negligence and public-harm offences like sale of drug as different turn on the standard of care and causation — frame the defence around BNS 278 and the specific duty alleged.
• Police officers: Record the act endangering the public and any injury caused; a new sale of drug as different FIR cites BNS 278.
• Law students & citizens: Everyday conduct — rash driving, negligent handling of fire or poison, selling adulterated goods — can attract the sale of drug as different provision.