CrPC Section 446 = BNSS Section 491

Procedure When Bond is Forfeited

जब बंधपत्र समपहृत हो तब प्रक्रिया

Bail & Bonds No Change in Punishment Cognizable Bailable Updated: 2026-02-28

Overview

Section 446 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) dealt with procedure when bond is forfeited. Under the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) 2023, this provision is now covered under Section 491. The BNSS reorganizes and modernizes the procedural framework while largely retaining the substantive provisions.

Hindi दण्ड प्रक्रिया संहिता (CrPC) की धारा 446 जब बंधपत्र समपहृत हो तब प्रक्रिया से संबंधित थी। भारतीय नागरिक सुरक्षा संहिता (BNSS) 2023 के तहत, यह प्रावधान अब धारा 491 में शामिल है।

Side-by-Side Comparison

Aspect CrPC (Old) BNSS (New)
Section Number Section 446 Section 491
Title Procedure When Bond is Forfeited Procedure When Bond is Forfeited
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 446 to BNSS 491
  • 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 446?

CrPC Section 446 (Procedure When Bond is Forfeited) is now BNSS Section 491 under the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita 2023, effective from July 1, 2024.

Has CrPC Section 446 changed under BNSS?

The core provision remains substantially the same under BNSS Section 491. 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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