IPC 508 → BNS 354: Divine Displeasure

Quick Summary: IPC 508 vs BNS 354

The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023, in force since 1 July 2024, has replaced the colonial-era Indian Penal Code (IPC) 1860. IPC 508 (Divine Displeasure) 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 354, several such offences are non-cognizable or compoundable, which changes how divine displeasure is pursued.

What did IPC 508 cover?

IPC 508 dealt with divine displeasure — act caused by inducing person to believe that he will be rendered an object of the divine displeasure. 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 354: What changed in the new law?

No major change. From 1 July 2024, new complaints relating to divine displeasure are filed under BNS Section 354, while cases registered earlier continue under the old IPC provision as per the saving clause of the BNS.

Punishment under BNS 354

Same - Up to 1 year

Practical implications for advocates, police & citizens

• Advocates: For divine displeasure, check cognizability and whether the offence is compoundable before advising; the substantive provision is now BNS 354, not IPC 508.
• Police officers: Confirm whether the divine displeasure offence is cognizable before acting, and cite BNS 354 where an FIR is registered.
• Law students & citizens: Some offences in this group, including divine displeasure, can only be pursued on the complaint of the aggrieved person — know whether yours is cognizable.