IPC Section 279 = BNS Section 281

Rash Driving or Riding on a Public Way

सार्वजनिक मार्ग पर तेज या लापरवाह ड्राइविंग

Offences Against Public Health & Safety Punishment Changed Cognizable Bailable Updated: 2026-02-28

Overview

Section 279 of the IPC dealt with rash driving or riding on a public way, endangering human life or causing annoyance. Under BNS 2023, this is now Section 281. The fine has been increased significantly.

Hindi IPC की धारा 279 सार्वजनिक मार्ग पर तेज या लापरवाह ड्राइविंग से संबंधित थी। BNS 2023 के तहत यह अब धारा 281 है। जुर्माना बढ़ाया गया है।

Side-by-Side Comparison

Aspect IPC (Old) BNS (New)
Section Number Section 279 Section 281
Title Rash Driving or Riding on a Public Way Rash Driving or Riding on a Public Way
Punishment Imprisonment up to 6 months, or fine up to Rs. 1,000, or both Imprisonment up to 6 months, or fine up to Rs. 5,000, or both
Changed
Cognizable Yes — Police can arrest without warrant
Bailable Yes — Bail is a matter of right
Compoundable Yes — Can be settled between parties
Triable By Any Magistrate

Key Changes

  • Section number changed from IPC 279 to BNS 281
  • Fine increased from Rs. 1,000 to Rs. 5,000
  • Imprisonment term remains the same

Ingredients of the Offence

To establish this offence, the prosecution must prove:

  1. 1 The accused drove a vehicle rashly or negligently on a public way
  2. 2 The driving endangered human life or was likely to cause hurt or injury

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the BNS equivalent of IPC Section 279?

IPC Section 279 (Rash Driving or Riding on a Public Way) is now BNS Section 281 under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita 2023, effective from July 1, 2024.

Has the punishment changed from IPC 279 to BNS 281?

Yes, the punishment has been modified. Under BNS 281: Imprisonment up to 6 months, or fine up to Rs. 5,000, or both.

Is BNS Section 281 cognizable?

Yes, BNS Section 281 is a cognizable, bailable, and 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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