IPC → BNS
IPC Section 509 is now BNS Section 79
Word, gesture or act intended to insult modesty of a woman. The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 replaced the Indian Penal Code with effect from 1 July 2024.
Repealed
IPC Section 509
Word, gesture or act intended to insult the modesty of a woman
Whoever, intending to insult the modesty of any woman, utters any word, makes any sound or gesture, or exhibits any object, intending that such word or sound shall be heard, or that such gesture or object shall be seen, by such woman, or intrudes upon the privacy of such woman, shall be punished with simple imprisonment for a term which may extend to three years, and also with fine1.
Read the full IPC section →In force
BNS Section 79
Word, gesture or act intended to insult modesty of a woman
Whoever, intending to insult the modesty of any woman, utters any words, makes any sound or gesture, or exhibits any object in any form, intending that such word or sound shall be heard, or that such gesture or object shall be seen, by such woman, or intrudes upon the privacy of such woman, shall be punished with simple imprisonment for a term which may extend to three years, and also with fine. Of offences relating to marriage
Read the full BNS section →Common questions
Which BNS section replaced IPC 509?
BNS Section 79 — Word, gesture or act intended to insult modesty of a woman. IPC 509 dealt with word, gesture or act intended to insult the modesty of a woman; the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita carries it forward under the new numbering.
Is IPC 509 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The IPC was repealed from 1 July 2024.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.