IPC 374 → BNS 146: Unlawful Labour

Quick Summary: IPC 374 vs BNS 146

The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023, in force since 1 July 2024, has replaced the colonial-era Indian Penal Code (IPC) 1860. IPC 374 deals with unlawful labour, 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 unlawful labour as BNS 146 and, for several sexual and grievous-hurt offences, enhances the punishment.

What did IPC 374 cover?

IPC 374 dealt with unlawful labour — unlawful compulsory labour. 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 146: What changed in the new law?

No major change. From 1 July 2024, new complaints relating to unlawful labour are filed under BNS Section 146, while cases registered earlier continue under the old IPC provision as per the saving clause of the BNS.

Punishment under BNS 146

Same - Up to 1 year

Practical implications for advocates, police & citizens

• Advocates: For unlawful labour, the grading of the offence — and therefore bail and forum — turns on intention, the degree of hurt and aggravating factors; map IPC 374 carefully to BNS 146.
• Police officers: Record the nature and degree of injury and the weapon or means used; a new unlawful labour FIR is filed under BNS 146.
• Law students & citizens: Punishment for unlawful labour rises sharply with the seriousness of the harm and the victim — the IPC 374 to BNS 146 change does not lower it.