IPC 354C → BNS 77: Voyeurism

Quick Summary: IPC 354C vs BNS 77

The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023, in force since 1 July 2024, has replaced the colonial-era Indian Penal Code (IPC) 1860. IPC 354C deals with voyeurism, 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 voyeurism as BNS 77 and, for several sexual and grievous-hurt offences, enhances the punishment.

What did IPC 354C cover?

IPC 354C dealt with voyeurism — voyeurism (watching/capturing image of woman engaging in private act). 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 77: What changed in the new law?

Includes electronic dissemination. From 1 July 2024, new complaints relating to voyeurism are filed under BNS Section 77, while cases registered earlier continue under the old IPC provision as per the saving clause of the BNS.

Punishment under BNS 77

Same - Up to 3 years (1st conviction)

Practical implications for advocates, police & citizens

• Advocates: For voyeurism, the grading of the offence — and therefore bail and forum — turns on intention, the degree of hurt and aggravating factors; map IPC 354C carefully to BNS 77.
• Police officers: Record the nature and degree of injury and the weapon or means used; a new voyeurism FIR is filed under BNS 77.
• Law students & citizens: Punishment for voyeurism rises sharply with the seriousness of the harm and the victim — the IPC 354C to BNS 77 change does not lower it.