IPC Section 376A = BNS Section 66

Punishment for Causing Death or Persistent Vegetative State during Rape

बलात्संग के दौरान मृत्यु या स्थायी विकृति

Offences Against Women No Change in Punishment Cognizable Non-Bailable Updated: 2026-02-28

Overview

Section 376A of the IPC dealt with punishment for causing death or persistent vegetative state during or after commission of rape. Under BNS 2023, this is now Section 66.

Hindi IPC की धारा 376A बलात्संग के दौरान मृत्यु कारित करने के दंड से संबंधित थी। BNS 2023 के तहत यह अब धारा 66 है।

Side-by-Side Comparison

Aspect IPC (Old) BNS (New)
Section Number Section 376A Section 66
Title Punishment for Causing Death or Persistent Vegetative State during Rape Punishment for Causing Death during Rape
Punishment Rigorous imprisonment not less than 20 years, extendable to life or death Rigorous imprisonment not less than 20 years, extendable to life or death
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

  • Section number changed from IPC 376A to BNS 66
  • Minimum 20 years imprisonment remains
  • Death penalty provision continues

Ingredients of the Offence

To establish this offence, the prosecution must prove:

  1. 1 The accused committed rape
  2. 2 The act caused death of the woman or left her in a persistent vegetative state

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the BNS equivalent of IPC Section 376A?

IPC Section 376A (Punishment for Causing Death or Persistent Vegetative State during Rape) is now BNS Section 66 under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita 2023, effective from July 1, 2024.

Has the punishment changed from IPC 376A to BNS 66?

No, the punishment remains substantially the same. Under BNS 66: Rigorous imprisonment not less than 20 years, extendable to life or death.

Is BNS Section 66 cognizable?

Yes, BNS Section 66 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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