IPC 302 → BNS 103: Murder

Quick Summary: IPC 302 vs BNS 103

The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023, in force since 1 July 2024, has replaced the colonial-era Indian Penal Code (IPC) 1860. IPC 302 deals with murder, part of the IPC's offences affecting the human body — homicide, hurt, wrongful restraint, criminal force, kidnapping and sexual offences, the largest group in the code. The BNS renumbers murder as BNS 103 and, for several sexual and grievous-hurt offences, enhances the punishment.

What did IPC 302 cover?

IPC 302 dealt with murder — punishment for murder. 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 103: What changed in the new law?

No major change in punishment structure. From 1 July 2024, new complaints relating to murder are filed under BNS Section 103, while cases registered earlier continue under the old IPC provision as per the saving clause of the BNS.

Punishment under BNS 103

Same - Death or life imprisonment

Practical implications for advocates, police & citizens

• Advocates: For murder, the grading of the offence — and therefore bail and forum — turns on intention, the degree of hurt and aggravating factors; map IPC 302 carefully to BNS 103.
• Police officers: Record the nature and degree of injury and the weapon or means used; a new murder FIR is filed under BNS 103.
• Law students & citizens: Punishment for murder rises sharply with the seriousness of the harm and the victim — the IPC 302 to BNS 103 change does not lower it.