IPC 335 → BNS 122(2): Grievous Hurt (Provocation)

Quick Summary: IPC 335 vs BNS 122(2)

The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023, in force since 1 July 2024, has replaced the colonial-era Indian Penal Code (IPC) 1860. IPC 335 deals with grievous hurt (provocation), 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 grievous hurt (provocation) as BNS 122(2) and, for several sexual and grievous-hurt offences, enhances the punishment.

What did IPC 335 cover?

IPC 335 dealt with grievous hurt (provocation) — voluntarily causing grievous hurt on provocation. 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 122(2): What changed in the new law?

No major change. From 1 July 2024, new complaints relating to grievous hurt (provocation) are filed under BNS Section 122(2), while cases registered earlier continue under the old IPC provision as per the saving clause of the BNS.

Punishment under BNS 122(2)

Same - Up to 4 years

Practical implications for advocates, police & citizens

• Advocates: For grievous hurt (provocation), the grading of the offence — and therefore bail and forum — turns on intention, the degree of hurt and aggravating factors; map IPC 335 carefully to BNS 122(2).
• Police officers: Record the nature and degree of injury and the weapon or means used; a new grievous hurt (provocation) FIR is filed under BNS 122(2).
• Law students & citizens: Punishment for grievous hurt (provocation) rises sharply with the seriousness of the harm and the victim — the IPC 335 to BNS 122(2) change does not lower it.