IPC 498 → BNS 84: Enticing Married Woman

Quick Summary: IPC 498 vs BNS 84

The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023, in force since 1 July 2024, has replaced the colonial-era Indian Penal Code (IPC) 1860. IPC 498 (Enticing Married Woman) falls in the IPC's offences relating to marriage, reputation and intimidation — offences relating to marriage, cruelty by a husband or his relatives, defamation, and criminal intimidation or insult. Retained by the BNS as BNS 84, several such offences are non-cognizable or compoundable, which changes how enticing married woman is pursued.

What did IPC 498 cover?

IPC 498 dealt with enticing married woman — enticing or taking away or detaining with criminal intent a married woman. 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 84: What changed in the new law?

Removed from BNS. From 1 July 2024, new complaints relating to enticing married woman are filed under BNS Section 84, while cases registered earlier continue under the old IPC provision as per the saving clause of the BNS.

Punishment under BNS 84

Removed

Practical implications for advocates, police & citizens

• Advocates: For enticing married woman, check cognizability and whether the offence is compoundable before advising; the substantive provision is now BNS 84, not IPC 498.
• Police officers: Confirm whether the enticing married woman offence is cognizable before acting, and cite BNS 84 where an FIR is registered.
• Law students & citizens: Some offences in this group, including enticing married woman, can only be pursued on the complaint of the aggrieved person — know whether yours is cognizable.