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IPC 421 → BNS 320: Fraudulent Removal (Creditor)

IPC Section 421 (Fraudulent Removal (Creditor)) under the old Indian Penal Code 1860 is now covered under Section 320 of the new Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023, effective from 1 July 2024.

Old Law — IPC 1860

421

Fraudulent Removal (Creditor)

Dishonest or fraudulent removal or concealment of property to prevent distribution among creditors

New Law — BNS 2023

320

Fraudulent Removal (Creditor)

Punishment / Liability

Same - Up to 2 years

Key Change / Note

No major change

Facing a case under BNS 320?

Connect with a verified criminal lawyer for bail, FIR & defence under BNS 320.

Quick Summary: IPC 421 vs BNS 320

The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023, which came into force on 1 July 2024, has replaced the colonial-era Indian Penal Code (IPC) 1860. Under the new criminal law framework, IPC Section 421 (Fraudulent Removal (Creditor)) is now mapped to BNS Section 320.

What did IPC 421 cover?

IPC 421 dealt with fraudulent removal (creditor) — dishonest or fraudulent removal or concealment of property to prevent distribution among creditors. Until 30 June 2024, every FIR and criminal trial relating to this offence in India was registered and prosecuted under this provision of the Indian Penal Code 1860.

BNS 320: What changed in the new law?

No major change. From 1 July 2024, all new criminal complaints relating to fraudulent removal (creditor) are filed under BNS Section 320. Cases registered before 1 July 2024 will, however, continue to be tried under the old IPC provisions as per the saving clause of the BNS.

Punishment under BNS 320

Same - Up to 2 years

Practical implications for advocates, police & citizens

Advocates: While drafting bail applications, vakalatnamas and written statements for offences registered after 1 July 2024, cite BNS 320 instead of IPC 421.
Police officers: Use BNS 320 as the substantive offence in new FIRs; procedure is governed by the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS).
Law students & citizens: For competitive exams, judicial services and general awareness, remember the IPC 421 ↔ BNS 320 mapping.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the BNS equivalent of IPC Section 421?

IPC Section 421 (Fraudulent Removal (Creditor)) is now covered under Section 320 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023, effective from 1 July 2024.

What is the punishment under BNS 320?

Same - Up to 2 years

What is the key difference between IPC 421 and BNS 320?

No major change

Is IPC 421 still valid in India?

No. The Indian Penal Code 1860 has been repealed and replaced by the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023 with effect from 1 July 2024. All ongoing cases under IPC continue, but new FIRs are registered under BNS.