सं Samvidhan

IPC → BNS

IPC Section 363 is now BNS Section 137

Punishment for kidnapping — BNS s.137(2). The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 replaced the Indian Penal Code with effect from 1 July 2024.

Repealed

IPC Section 363

Punishment for kidnapping

Whoever kidnaps any person from India or from lawful guardianship, shall be punished with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to seven years, and shall also be liable to fine.

Read the full IPC section →

In force

BNS Section 137

Kidnapping

(1) Kidnapping is of two kinds: kidnapping from India, and kidnapping from lawful guardianship— (a) whoever conveys any person beyond the limits of India without the consent of that person, or of some person legally authorised to consent on behalf of that person, is said to kidnap that person from India; (b) whoever takes or entices any child or any person of unsound mind, out of the keeping of the lawful guardian of such child or person of unsound mind, without the consent of such guardian, is said to kidnap such child or person from lawful guardianship. Explanation.—The words “lawful guardian” in this clause include any person lawfully entrusted with the care or custody of such child or other person. Exception.—This clause does not extend to the act of any person who in good faith believes himself to be the father of an illegitimate child, or who in good faith believes himself to be entitled to the lawful custody of such child, unless such act is committed for an immoral or unlawful purpose. (2) Whoever kidnaps any person from India or from lawful guardianship shall be punished with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to seven years, and shall also be liable to fine.

Read the full BNS section →

Common questions

Which BNS section replaced IPC 363?

BNS Section 137Kidnapping. IPC 363 dealt with punishment for kidnapping; the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita carries it forward under the new numbering.

Is IPC 363 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The IPC was repealed from 1 July 2024.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.