IPC 390 → BNS 309(1): Robbery Definition

Quick Summary: IPC 390 vs BNS 309(1)

The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023, in force since 1 July 2024, has replaced the colonial-era Indian Penal Code (IPC) 1860. IPC 390 (Robbery Definition) is one of the IPC's offences against property — theft, extortion, robbery, dacoity, criminal breach of trust, cheating, mischief and criminal trespass. The BNS keeps this structure and adds a distinct provision for snatching, renumbering robbery definition as BNS 309(1).

What did IPC 390 cover?

IPC 390 dealt with robbery definition — definition of robbery (theft or extortion becomes robbery). 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 309(1): What changed in the new law?

Consolidated definition. From 1 July 2024, new complaints relating to robbery definition are filed under BNS Section 309(1), while cases registered earlier continue under the old IPC provision as per the saving clause of the BNS.

Punishment under BNS 309(1)

N/A - Definition

Practical implications for advocates, police & citizens

• Advocates: For robbery definition, the dividing lines — theft versus extortion, cheating versus breach of trust — decide the charge; confirm the BNS 309(1) mapping before drafting.
• Police officers: Establish dishonest intention and the manner of taking; a new robbery definition FIR cites BNS 309(1).
• Law students & citizens: With robbery definition, value, the manner of taking and any force used determine which property offence applies and how serious it is.