IPC Section 120A = BNS Section 60

Criminal Conspiracy (Definition)

आपराधिक षड्यंत्र (परिभाषा)

Criminal Conspiracy, Abetment & Attempt No Change in Punishment Cognizable Non-Bailable Updated: 2026-02-28

Overview

Section 120A of the IPC defined criminal conspiracy — when two or more persons agree to do an illegal act or a legal act by illegal means. Under BNS 2023, this is now Section 60.

Hindi IPC की धारा 120A आपराधिक षड्यंत्र को परिभाषित करती थी। BNS 2023 के तहत यह अब धारा 60 है।

Side-by-Side Comparison

Aspect IPC (Old) BNS (New)
Section Number Section 120A Section 60
Title Criminal Conspiracy (Definition) Criminal Conspiracy (Definition)
Punishment See Section 120B for punishment See Section 61 for punishment
Cognizable Yes — Police can arrest without warrant
Bailable No — Bail at the discretion of the court
Compoundable No — Cannot be compounded/settled
Triable By Court of Session / Magistrate First Class

Key Changes

  • Section number changed from IPC 120A to BNS 60
  • Definition remains the same
  • No substantive changes

Ingredients of the Offence

To establish this offence, the prosecution must prove:

  1. 1 Two or more persons agreed to do or cause to be done an illegal act
  2. 2 Or an act which is not illegal by illegal means

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the BNS equivalent of IPC Section 120A?

IPC Section 120A (Criminal Conspiracy (Definition)) is now BNS Section 60 under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita 2023, effective from July 1, 2024.

Has the punishment changed from IPC 120A to BNS 60?

No, the punishment remains substantially the same. Under BNS 60: See Section 61 for punishment.

Is BNS Section 60 cognizable?

Yes, BNS Section 60 is a cognizable, non-bailable, and non-compoundable offence.

Legal Disclaimer

This IPC-to-BNS 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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