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IPC 303 → BNS 104: Murder by Life Convict

IPC Section 303 (Murder by Life Convict) under the old Indian Penal Code 1860 is now covered under Section 104 of the new Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023, effective from 1 July 2024.

Old Law — IPC 1860

303

Murder by Life Convict

Punishment for murder by life convict

New Law — BNS 2023

104

Murder by Life Convict

Punishment / Liability

Death or Life Imprisonment

Key Change / Note

IPC 303 was struck down by SC; BNS 104 reintroduces it with 'Death or Life' option

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Quick Summary: IPC 303 vs BNS 104

The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023, which came into force on 1 July 2024, has replaced the colonial-era Indian Penal Code (IPC) 1860. Under the new criminal law framework, IPC Section 303 (Murder by Life Convict) is now mapped to BNS Section 104.

What did IPC 303 cover?

IPC 303 dealt with murder by life convict — punishment for murder by life convict. Until 30 June 2024, every FIR and criminal trial relating to this offence in India was registered and prosecuted under this provision of the Indian Penal Code 1860.

BNS 104: What changed in the new law?

IPC 303 was struck down by SC; BNS 104 reintroduces it with 'Death or Life' option. From 1 July 2024, all new criminal complaints relating to murder by life convict are filed under BNS Section 104. Cases registered before 1 July 2024 will, however, continue to be tried under the old IPC provisions as per the saving clause of the BNS.

Punishment under BNS 104

Death or Life Imprisonment

Practical implications for advocates, police & citizens

Advocates: While drafting bail applications, vakalatnamas and written statements for offences registered after 1 July 2024, cite BNS 104 instead of IPC 303.
Police officers: Use BNS 104 as the substantive offence in new FIRs; procedure is governed by the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS).
Law students & citizens: For competitive exams, judicial services and general awareness, remember the IPC 303 ↔ BNS 104 mapping.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the BNS equivalent of IPC Section 303?

IPC Section 303 (Murder by Life Convict) is now covered under Section 104 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023, effective from 1 July 2024.

What is the punishment under BNS 104?

Death or Life Imprisonment

What is the key difference between IPC 303 and BNS 104?

IPC 303 was struck down by SC; BNS 104 reintroduces it with 'Death or Life' option

Is IPC 303 still valid in India?

No. The Indian Penal Code 1860 has been repealed and replaced by the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023 with effect from 1 July 2024. All ongoing cases under IPC continue, but new FIRs are registered under BNS.