IPC 428 → BNS 325: Mischief (Animal 10Rs)

Quick Summary: IPC 428 vs BNS 325

The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023, in force since 1 July 2024, has replaced the colonial-era Indian Penal Code (IPC) 1860. IPC 428 (Mischief (Animal 10Rs)) 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 mischief (animal 10rs) as BNS 325.

What did IPC 428 cover?

IPC 428 dealt with mischief (animal 10rs) — mischief by killing or maiming animal of the value of ten rupees. 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 325: What changed in the new law?

Merged into single section for animals. From 1 July 2024, new complaints relating to mischief (animal 10rs) are filed under BNS Section 325, while cases registered earlier continue under the old IPC provision as per the saving clause of the BNS.

Punishment under BNS 325

Same - Up to 2 years

Practical implications for advocates, police & citizens

• Advocates: For mischief (animal 10rs), the dividing lines — theft versus extortion, cheating versus breach of trust — decide the charge; confirm the BNS 325 mapping before drafting.
• Police officers: Establish dishonest intention and the manner of taking; a new mischief (animal 10rs) FIR cites BNS 325.
• Law students & citizens: With mischief (animal 10rs), value, the manner of taking and any force used determine which property offence applies and how serious it is.