IPC Section 499 = BNS Section 356

Defamation

मानहानि

Defamation No Change in Punishment Non-Cognizable Bailable Updated: 2026-02-28

Overview

Section 499 of the IPC defined defamation — making or publishing any imputation concerning a person, intending to harm the reputation of such person. Under BNS 2023, this is now Section 356. The ten exceptions to defamation remain the same. The BNS combines the definition and punishment in one section.
Hindi IPC की धारा 499 मानहानि को परिभाषित करती थी। BNS 2023 के तहत यह अब धारा 356 है। मानहानि के दस अपवाद यथावत हैं।

Side-by-Side Comparison

Aspect IPC (Old) BNS (New)
Section Number Section 499 Section 356
Title Defamation Defamation
Punishment See Section 500 for punishment — simple imprisonment up to 2 years, or fine, or both See Section 356(2) for punishment — simple imprisonment up to 2 years, or fine, or both
Cognizable No — Warrant required for arrest
Bailable Yes — Bail is a matter of right
Compoundable Yes — Can be settled between parties
Triable By Magistrate of the First Class

Key Changes

  • Section number changed from IPC 499 to BNS 356
  • IPC 500 (punishment) merged into BNS 356(2)
  • Ten exceptions to defamation remain the same
  • No substantive changes in punishment

Ingredients of the Offence

To establish this offence, the prosecution must prove:

  1. 1 The accused made or published an imputation concerning another person
  2. 2 The imputation was made by words, signs, or visible representations
  3. 3 The intent was to harm the reputation of the person
  4. 4 The imputation was known or believed to be false

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the BNS equivalent of IPC Section 499?

IPC Section 499 (Defamation) is now BNS Section 356 under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita 2023, effective from July 1, 2024.

Has the punishment changed from IPC 499 to BNS 356?

No, the punishment remains substantially the same. Under BNS 356: See Section 356(2) for punishment — simple imprisonment up to 2 years, or fine, or both.

Is BNS Section 356 cognizable?

No, BNS Section 356 is a non-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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