IPC → BNS
IPC Section 294 is now BNS Section 296
Obscene acts and songs. The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 replaced the Indian Penal Code with effect from 1 July 2024.
Repealed
IPC Section 294
Obscene acts and songs
Whoever, to the annoyance of others: does any obscene act in any public place, or sings, recites or utters any obscene song, ballad or words, in or near any public place, shall be punished with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to three months, or with fine, or with both.
Read the full IPC section →In force
BNS Section 296
Obscene acts and songs
Whoever, to the annoyance of others,— (a) does any obscene act in any public place; or (b) sings, recites or utters any obscene song, ballad or words, in or near any public place, shall be punished with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to three months, or with fine which may extend to one thousand rupees, or with both.
Read the full BNS section →Common questions
Which BNS section replaced IPC 294?
BNS Section 296 — Obscene acts and songs. IPC 294 dealt with obscene acts and songs; the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita carries it forward under the new numbering.
Is IPC 294 still valid?
The IPC was repealed from 1 July 2024. Offences committed before that date are still tried under the IPC; anything after falls under the BNS. Both matter for exams — questions are set on the old and the new numbering.
Mapping cross-checked against both section texts and editorially reviewable. Education, not legal advice — verify critical use against the official Gazette.