IPC 7 to BNS 3(2): Sense of expression once explained
Section 7 IPC (1860) replaced by Section 3(2) BNS (2023)
IPC 7 to BNS 3(2) at a Glance
Section 7 IPC (Sense of expression once explained) is now Section 3(2) BNS, in force from 1 July 2024. What changed is set out below.
What Changed From IPC 7 to BNS 3(2)?
Section 7 IPC corresponds to Section 3(2) BNS. Section 3(2) BNS preserves the rule of uniform interpretation across the enactment, substituting this Sanhita for this Code and capitalising the word Part. Expressions defined in the Sanhita retain their statutory meaning throughout all provisions.
IPC 7 vs BNS 3(2): Comparison Table
| Aspect | IPC 1860 (repealed) | BNS 2023 (in force) |
|---|---|---|
| Section | 7 | 3(2) |
| Offence | Sense of expression once explained | Same |
| Punishment | None. Section 7 IPC creates no offence. | None. Section 3(2) BNS creates no offence. |
| Fine | None. Section 7 IPC creates no offence. | None. Section 3(2) BNS creates no offence. |
| Bail | Non-Bailable | Same |
| Cognizance | Non-Cognizable | Same |
| Compoundable | Non-Compoundable | Same |
IPC 7 and BNS 3(2): Bare Act Text Side by Side
Section 7, IPC 1860
Section 3(2), BNS 2023
Ingredients: IPC 7 vs BNS 3(2)
- An expression is explained in any part of the Code
- The expression is used in every part of the Code in conformity with that explanation
- An expression explained in any Part of the Sanhita
- Application of that explained sense across all Parts of the Sanhita
What IPC 7 to BNS 3(2) Means for Pending Cases
FAQs: IPC 7 to BNS 3(2)
What changed from Section 7 IPC in Section 3(2) BNS?▼
Section 3(2) BNS retains the rule of Section 7 IPC verbatim, replacing this Code with this Sanhita and writing Part with a capital letter. The legal effect is unchanged.
Where does Section 7 IPC sit in the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita?▼
It sits in Section 3(2) BNS, in Chapter I, Preliminary, under the heading General explanations.
Does Section 7 IPC or Section 3(2) BNS apply to an act done before 1 July 2024?▼
Section 7 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 Section 358 BNS repealed the IPC from 1 July 2024 but saves any liability already incurred under it, so an act done before that date is still dealt with under Section 7 IPC. Section 3(2) 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 ·