IPC 357 → BNS 135: Assault (Confinement)

Quick Summary: IPC 357 vs BNS 135

The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023, in force since 1 July 2024, has replaced the colonial-era Indian Penal Code (IPC) 1860. IPC 357 deals with assault (confinement), 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 (confinement) as BNS 135 and, for several sexual and grievous-hurt offences, enhances the punishment.

What did IPC 357 cover?

IPC 357 dealt with assault (confinement) — assault or criminal force in attempt wrongfully to confine a person. 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 135: What changed in the new law?

No major change. From 1 July 2024, new complaints relating to assault (confinement) are filed under BNS Section 135, while cases registered earlier continue under the old IPC provision as per the saving clause of the BNS.

Punishment under BNS 135

Same - Up to 1 year

Practical implications for advocates, police & citizens

• Advocates: For assault (confinement), the grading of the offence — and therefore bail and forum — turns on intention, the degree of hurt and aggravating factors; map IPC 357 carefully to BNS 135.
• Police officers: Record the nature and degree of injury and the weapon or means used; a new assault (confinement) FIR is filed under BNS 135.
• Law students & citizens: Punishment for assault (confinement) rises sharply with the seriousness of the harm and the victim — the IPC 357 to BNS 135 change does not lower it.