CrPC Section 309 = BNSS Section 346

Power to Postpone or Adjourn Proceedings

कार्यवाही स्थगित करने की शक्ति

General Trial Provisions Punishment Changed Cognizable Bailable Updated: 2026-02-28

Overview

Section 309 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) dealt with power to postpone or adjourn proceedings. Under the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) 2023, this provision is now covered under Section 346. The BNSS reorganizes and modernizes the procedural framework while largely retaining the substantive provisions.

Hindi दण्ड प्रक्रिया संहिता (CrPC) की धारा 309 कार्यवाही स्थगित करने की शक्ति से संबंधित थी। भारतीय नागरिक सुरक्षा संहिता (BNSS) 2023 के तहत, यह प्रावधान अब धारा 346 में शामिल है।

Side-by-Side Comparison

Aspect CrPC (Old) BNSS (New)
Section Number Section 309 Section 346
Title Power to Postpone or Adjourn Proceedings Power to Postpone or Adjourn Proceedings
Punishment N/A (Procedural) N/A (Procedural)
Changed
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 309 to BNSS 346
  • BNSS modernizes the procedural framework with updated terminology and structure
  • Notable changes introduced in scope or procedure under the new law

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the BNSS equivalent of CrPC Section 309?

CrPC Section 309 (Power to Postpone or Adjourn Proceedings) is now BNSS Section 346 under the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita 2023, effective from July 1, 2024.

Has CrPC Section 309 changed under BNSS?

The core provision remains substantially the same under BNSS Section 346. 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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