CrPC Section 256 = BNSS Section 279

Non-Appearance or Death of Complainant

परिवादी की अनुपस्थिति या मृत्यु

Trial of Summons Cases No Change in Punishment Cognizable Bailable Updated: 2026-02-28

Overview

Section 256 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) dealt with non-appearance or death of complainant. Under the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) 2023, this provision is now covered under Section 279. The BNSS reorganizes and modernizes the procedural framework while largely retaining the substantive provisions.

Hindi दण्ड प्रक्रिया संहिता (CrPC) की धारा 256 परिवादी की अनुपस्थिति या मृत्यु से संबंधित थी। भारतीय नागरिक सुरक्षा संहिता (BNSS) 2023 के तहत, यह प्रावधान अब धारा 279 में शामिल है।

Side-by-Side Comparison

Aspect CrPC (Old) BNSS (New)
Section Number Section 256 Section 279
Title Non-Appearance or Death of Complainant Non-Appearance or Death of Complainant
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 256 to BNSS 279
  • 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 256?

CrPC Section 256 (Non-Appearance or Death of Complainant) is now BNSS Section 279 under the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita 2023, effective from July 1, 2024.

Has CrPC Section 256 changed under BNSS?

The core provision remains substantially the same under BNSS Section 279. 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.

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