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IPC 502 → BNS 354(4): Selling Defamation

IPC Section 502 (Selling Defamation) under the old Indian Penal Code 1860 is now covered under Section 354(4) of the new Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023, effective from 1 July 2024.

Old Law — IPC 1860

502

Selling Defamation

Sale of printed or engraved substance containing defamatory matter

New Law — BNS 2023

354(4)

Selling Defamation

Punishment / Liability

Same - Up to 2 years

Key Change / Note

Community service added as alternative

Facing a case under BNS 354(4)?

Connect with a verified criminal lawyer for bail, FIR & defence under BNS 354(4).

Quick Summary: IPC 502 vs BNS 354(4)

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 502 (Selling Defamation) is now mapped to BNS Section 354(4).

What did IPC 502 cover?

IPC 502 dealt with selling defamation — sale of printed or engraved substance containing defamatory matter. 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 354(4): What changed in the new law?

Community service added as alternative. From 1 July 2024, all new criminal complaints relating to selling defamation are filed under BNS Section 354(4). 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 354(4)

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 354(4) instead of IPC 502.
Police officers: Use BNS 354(4) 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 502 ↔ BNS 354(4) mapping.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the BNS equivalent of IPC Section 502?

IPC Section 502 (Selling Defamation) is now covered under Section 354(4) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023, effective from 1 July 2024.

What is the punishment under BNS 354(4)?

Same - Up to 2 years

What is the key difference between IPC 502 and BNS 354(4)?

Community service added as alternative

Is IPC 502 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.