IPC Section 505 = BNS Section 353

Statements Conducing to Public Mischief

लोक अपकार कारित करने वाले कथन

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

Overview

Section 505 of the IPC dealt with statements conducing to public mischief — making, publishing, or circulating statements likely to cause fear, incite enmity between classes, or incite offences against the state. Under BNS 2023, this is now Section 353.
Hindi IPC की धारा 505 लोक अपकार कारित करने वाले कथनों से संबंधित थी। BNS 2023 के तहत यह अब धारा 353 है।

Side-by-Side Comparison

Aspect IPC (Old) BNS (New)
Section Number Section 505 Section 353
Title Statements Conducing to Public Mischief Statements Conducing to Public Mischief
Punishment Imprisonment up to 3 years, or fine, or both; sub-section (2) or (3) — up to 5 years and fine Imprisonment up to 3 years, or fine, or both; sub-section (2) or (3) — up to 5 years and fine
Cognizable Yes — Police can arrest without warrant
Bailable No — Bail at the discretion of the court
Compoundable No — Cannot be compounded/settled
Triable By Magistrate of the First Class

Key Changes

  • Section number changed from IPC 505 to BNS 353
  • Punishment remains the same
  • Electronic media expressly included

Ingredients of the Offence

To establish this offence, the prosecution must prove:

  1. 1 The accused made, published, or circulated a statement, rumour, or report
  2. 2 The statement was likely to cause fear, alarm, or incite offence

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the BNS equivalent of IPC Section 505?

IPC Section 505 (Statements Conducing to Public Mischief) is now BNS Section 353 under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita 2023, effective from July 1, 2024.

Has the punishment changed from IPC 505 to BNS 353?

No, the punishment remains substantially the same. Under BNS 353: Imprisonment up to 3 years, or fine, or both; sub-section (2) or (3) — up to 5 years and fine.

Is BNS Section 353 cognizable?

Yes, BNS Section 353 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.

Need Help With Your Legal Matter?

Search court cases, track case status, or get in touch with us for assistance.