Verified 2025 — BNS Bare Act

IPC 354A → BNS 75: Sexual Harassment

IPC Section 354A (Sexual Harassment) under the old Indian Penal Code 1860 is now covered under Section 75 of the new Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023, effective from 1 July 2024.

Old Law — IPC 1860

354A

Sexual Harassment

Sexual harassment and punishment for sexual harassment

New Law — BNS 2023

75

Sexual Harassment

Punishment / Liability

Same - Up to 3 years

Key Change / Note

Includes physical contact, demands for favors, pornography

Facing a case under BNS 75?

Connect with a verified criminal lawyer for bail, FIR & defence under BNS 75.

Quick Summary: IPC 354A vs BNS 75

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 354A (Sexual Harassment) is now mapped to BNS Section 75.

What did IPC 354A cover?

IPC 354A dealt with sexual harassment — sexual harassment and punishment for sexual harassment. 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 75: What changed in the new law?

Includes physical contact, demands for favors, pornography. From 1 July 2024, all new criminal complaints relating to sexual harassment are filed under BNS Section 75. 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 75

Same - Up to 3 years

Practical implications for advocates, police & citizens

Advocates: While drafting bail applications, vakalatnamas and written statements for offences registered after 1 July 2024, cite BNS 75 instead of IPC 354A.
Police officers: Use BNS 75 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 354A ↔ BNS 75 mapping.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the BNS equivalent of IPC Section 354A?

IPC Section 354A (Sexual Harassment) is now covered under Section 75 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023, effective from 1 July 2024.

What is the punishment under BNS 75?

Same - Up to 3 years

What is the key difference between IPC 354A and BNS 75?

Includes physical contact, demands for favors, pornography

Is IPC 354A 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.