Verified 2025 — BNS Bare Act

IPC 326 → BNS 118: Hurt by Dangerous Weapons

IPC Section 326 (Hurt by Dangerous Weapons) under the old Indian Penal Code 1860 is now covered under Section 118 of the new Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023, effective from 1 July 2024.

Old Law — IPC 1860

326

Hurt by Dangerous Weapons

Voluntarily causing grievous hurt by dangerous weapons

New Law — BNS 2023

118

Hurt by Dangerous Weapons

Punishment / Liability

Enhanced - Life or up to 10 years with fine

Key Change / Note

Acid attacks specifically addressed

Facing a case under BNS 118?

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Quick Summary: IPC 326 vs BNS 118

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 326 (Hurt by Dangerous Weapons) is now mapped to BNS Section 118.

What did IPC 326 cover?

IPC 326 dealt with hurt by dangerous weapons — voluntarily causing grievous hurt by dangerous weapons. 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 118: What changed in the new law?

Acid attacks specifically addressed. From 1 July 2024, all new criminal complaints relating to hurt by dangerous weapons are filed under BNS Section 118. 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 118

Enhanced - Life or up to 10 years with fine

Practical implications for advocates, police & citizens

Advocates: While drafting bail applications, vakalatnamas and written statements for offences registered after 1 July 2024, cite BNS 118 instead of IPC 326.
Police officers: Use BNS 118 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 326 ↔ BNS 118 mapping.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the BNS equivalent of IPC Section 326?

IPC Section 326 (Hurt by Dangerous Weapons) is now covered under Section 118 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023, effective from 1 July 2024.

What is the punishment under BNS 118?

Enhanced - Life or up to 10 years with fine

What is the key difference between IPC 326 and BNS 118?

Acid attacks specifically addressed

Is IPC 326 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.