IPC Section 124A = BNS Section 152

Sedition

राजद्रोह

Offences Against the State Punishment Changed Cognizable Non-Bailable Updated: 2026-02-28

Overview

Section 124A of the IPC dealt with sedition — exciting disaffection towards the Government. Under BNS 2023, sedition has been replaced by Section 152 which deals with acts endangering sovereignty, unity, and integrity of India. The scope has been modified significantly — it now targets acts through words, signs, electronic communication that excite secession, armed rebellion, or subversive activities. The maximum imprisonment for the lower bracket has been increased from 3 to 7 years.
Hindi IPC की धारा 124A राजद्रोह से संबंधित थी। BNS 2023 में इसे धारा 152 से प्रतिस्थापित किया गया है जो भारत की संप्रभुता, एकता और अखंडता को खतरे में डालने वाले कार्यों से संबंधित है। इसका दायरा काफी बदला गया है।

Side-by-Side Comparison

Aspect IPC (Old) BNS (New)
Section Number Section 124A Section 152
Title Sedition Acts Endangering Sovereignty, Unity, and Integrity of India
Punishment Imprisonment for life and fine, or imprisonment up to 3 years and fine Imprisonment for life and fine, or imprisonment up to 7 years and fine
Changed
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

Key Changes

  • Sedition replaced by 'acts endangering sovereignty' under BNS Section 152
  • Scope shifted from 'disaffection towards government' to 'endangering sovereignty, unity, integrity'
  • Electronic communication expressly included
  • Lower bracket imprisonment increased from 3 to 7 years
  • This is one of the most debated changes in BNS 2023

Ingredients of the Offence

To establish this offence, the prosecution must prove:

  1. 1 The accused committed acts that excite or attempt to excite secession or armed rebellion
  2. 2 The acts were through words, signs, or electronic communication
  3. 3 The acts endanger the sovereignty, unity, and integrity of India

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the BNS equivalent of IPC Section 124A?

IPC Section 124A (Sedition) is now BNS Section 152 under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita 2023, effective from July 1, 2024.

Has the punishment changed from IPC 124A to BNS 152?

Yes, the punishment has been modified. Under BNS 152: Imprisonment for life and fine, or imprisonment up to 7 years and fine.

Is BNS Section 152 cognizable?

Yes, BNS Section 152 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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