IPC 352 → BNS 131: Punishment for Assault

Quick Summary: IPC 352 vs BNS 131

The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023, in force since 1 July 2024, has replaced the colonial-era Indian Penal Code (IPC) 1860. IPC 352 deals with punishment for assault, 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 punishment for assault as BNS 131 and, for several sexual and grievous-hurt offences, enhances the punishment.

What did IPC 352 cover?

IPC 352 dealt with punishment for assault — punishment for assault or criminal force otherwise than on grave 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 131: What changed in the new law?

No major change. From 1 July 2024, new complaints relating to punishment for assault are filed under BNS Section 131, while cases registered earlier continue under the old IPC provision as per the saving clause of the BNS.

Punishment under BNS 131

Same - Up to 3 months

Practical implications for advocates, police & citizens

• Advocates: For punishment for assault, the grading of the offence — and therefore bail and forum — turns on intention, the degree of hurt and aggravating factors; map IPC 352 carefully to BNS 131.
• Police officers: Record the nature and degree of injury and the weapon or means used; a new punishment for assault FIR is filed under BNS 131.
• Law students & citizens: Punishment for punishment for assault rises sharply with the seriousness of the harm and the victim — the IPC 352 to BNS 131 change does not lower it.