CrPC Section 221 = BNSS Section 244

Where It Is Doubtful What Offence Has Been Committed

जब संदेह हो कि कौन-सा अपराध किया गया

Charge & Discharge No Change in Punishment Cognizable Bailable Updated: 2026-02-28

Overview

Section 221 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) dealt with where it is doubtful what offence has been committed. Under the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) 2023, this provision is now covered under Section 244. The BNSS reorganizes and modernizes the procedural framework while largely retaining the substantive provisions.

Hindi दण्ड प्रक्रिया संहिता (CrPC) की धारा 221 जब संदेह हो कि कौन-सा अपराध किया गया से संबंधित थी। भारतीय नागरिक सुरक्षा संहिता (BNSS) 2023 के तहत, यह प्रावधान अब धारा 244 में शामिल है।

Side-by-Side Comparison

Aspect CrPC (Old) BNSS (New)
Section Number Section 221 Section 244
Title Where It Is Doubtful What Offence Has Been Committed Where It Is Doubtful What Offence Has Been Committed
Punishment N/A (Procedural) N/A (Procedural)
Cognizable Yes — Police can arrest without warrant
Bailable Yes — Bail is a matter of right
Compoundable No — Cannot be compounded/settled
Triable By Magistrate / Court of Session

Key Changes

  • Section number changed from CrPC 221 to BNSS 244
  • BNSS modernizes the procedural framework with updated terminology and structure
  • Substantive provisions remain largely the same with minor procedural refinements

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the BNSS equivalent of CrPC Section 221?

CrPC Section 221 (Where It Is Doubtful What Offence Has Been Committed) is now BNSS Section 244 under the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita 2023, effective from July 1, 2024.

Has CrPC Section 221 changed under BNSS?

The core provision remains substantially the same under BNSS Section 244. The BNSS reorganizes the procedural code with updated language and some procedural refinements.

Legal Disclaimer

This CrPC-to-BNSS section comparison is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice. The mapping may not cover all nuances introduced by the new law. Always consult a qualified advocate or legal professional before relying on this information. For more details, see our Disclaimer.

Need Help With Your Legal Matter?

Search court cases, track case status, or get in touch with us for assistance.