IPC 416 to BNS 319(1): Cheating by personation
Section 416 IPC (1860) replaced by Section 319(1) BNS (2023)
IPC 416 to BNS 319(1) at a Glance
Section 416 IPC (Cheating by personation) is now Section 319(1) BNS, in force from 1 July 2024. What changed is set out below.
What Changed From IPC 416 to BNS 319(1)?
Section 416 IPC corresponds to Section 319(1) BNS. Section 319(1) BNS retains the definition, Explanation, and illustrations of Section 416 IPC without substantive change. While the definition remains the same, the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 consolidates the definition and the punishing provision into Section 319 BNS, where Section 319(2) BNS raises the maximum punishment for cheating by personation from three years to five years.
IPC 416 vs BNS 319(1): Comparison Table
| Aspect | IPC 1860 (repealed) | BNS 2023 (in force) |
|---|---|---|
| Section | 416 | 319(1) |
| Offence | Cheating by personation | Same |
| Punishment | None of its own. Section 416 IPC defines cheating by personation and prescribes no punishment. Liability to punishment arises under Section 419 IPC, which provides imprisonment of either description for up to three years, or fine, or both. | None of its own. Section 319(1) BNS defines cheating by personation and prescribes no punishment. Liability to punishment arises under Section 319(2) BNS, which provides imprisonment of either description for up to five years, or fine, or both. |
| Fine | None of its own. Fines are prescribed under the punishing section, Section 419 IPC. | None of its own. Fines are prescribed under the punishing provision, Section 319(2) BNS. |
| Bail | Non-Bailable | Same |
| Cognizance | Non-Cognizable | Same |
| Compoundable | Non-Compoundable | Same |
IPC 416 and BNS 319(1): Bare Act Text Side by Side
Section 416, IPC 1860
Section 319(1), BNS 2023
Ingredients: IPC 416 vs BNS 319(1)
- The accused committed cheating within the meaning of Section 415 IPC
- The cheating was committed by pretending to be some other person, or by knowingly substituting one person for another, or by representing that the accused or any other person is a person other than he or such other person really is
- Commission of cheating within the statutory definition under Section 318(1) BNS
- Cheating accomplished by pretending to be some other person, knowingly substituting one person for another, or representing a person to be other than who that person really is
What IPC 416 to BNS 319(1) Means for Pending Cases
FAQs: IPC 416 to BNS 319(1)
What changed from Section 416 IPC to Section 319(1) BNS?▼
Section 319(1) BNS retains the definition, Explanation, and illustrations of Section 416 IPC without change in substance. The broader reform consolidates the definition and punishment into Section 319 BNS, raising the maximum term of imprisonment under Section 319(2) BNS from three years to five years.
Where does Section 416 IPC sit in the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita?▼
Section 416 IPC is located at Section 319(1) BNS, in Chapter XVII, Of Offences Against Property.
Does Section 416 IPC or Section 319(1) BNS apply to an act done before 1 July 2024?▼
Section 416 IPC. Section 358 BNS repealed the IPC from 1 July 2024 but saves any liability already incurred under it, so an act done before that date is still dealt with under Section 416 IPC. Section 319(1) BNS governs acts done on or after 1 July 2024.
Disclaimer: This comparison is for informational purposes only. The new criminal laws came into effect on 1 July 2024. Consult a qualified advocate for legal advice.
Sources: Indian Penal Code, 1860 · Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 · Last updated: 16 Oct 2026 ·