IPC 395 → BNS 310: Dacoity

Quick Summary: IPC 395 vs BNS 310

The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023, in force since 1 July 2024, has replaced the colonial-era Indian Penal Code (IPC) 1860. IPC 395 (Dacoity) 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 dacoity as BNS 310.

What did IPC 395 cover?

IPC 395 dealt with dacoity — punishment for dacoity. 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 310: What changed in the new law?

Enhanced provisions for organized dacoity. From 1 July 2024, new complaints relating to dacoity are filed under BNS Section 310, while cases registered earlier continue under the old IPC provision as per the saving clause of the BNS.

Punishment under BNS 310

Same - Life imprisonment or up to 10 years

Practical implications for advocates, police & citizens

• Advocates: For dacoity, the dividing lines — theft versus extortion, cheating versus breach of trust — decide the charge; confirm the BNS 310 mapping before drafting.
• Police officers: Establish dishonest intention and the manner of taking; a new dacoity FIR cites BNS 310.
• Law students & citizens: With dacoity, value, the manner of taking and any force used determine which property offence applies and how serious it is.