IPC 351 → BNS 130: Assault Definition

Quick Summary: IPC 351 vs BNS 130

The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023, in force since 1 July 2024, has replaced the colonial-era Indian Penal Code (IPC) 1860. IPC 351 deals with assault definition, 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 assault definition as BNS 130 and, for several sexual and grievous-hurt offences, enhances the punishment.

What did IPC 351 cover?

IPC 351 dealt with assault definition — definition of assault. 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 130: What changed in the new law?

No major change. From 1 July 2024, new complaints relating to assault definition are filed under BNS Section 130, while cases registered earlier continue under the old IPC provision as per the saving clause of the BNS.

Punishment under BNS 130

N/A - Definition

Practical implications for advocates, police & citizens

• Advocates: For assault definition, the grading of the offence — and therefore bail and forum — turns on intention, the degree of hurt and aggravating factors; map IPC 351 carefully to BNS 130.
• Police officers: Record the nature and degree of injury and the weapon or means used; a new assault definition FIR is filed under BNS 130.
• Law students & citizens: Punishment for assault definition rises sharply with the seriousness of the harm and the victim — the IPC 351 to BNS 130 change does not lower it.