What is the BNS equivalent of IPC 499/500?

IPC Section 499/500 (Defamation) corresponds to Section 356 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, which came into force on 1 July 2024.

What is the punishment under BNS Section 356?

Simple imprisonment up to 2 years, or fine, or both.

Is it bailable and cognizable?

Bailable: Yes. Cognizable: No. Triable by: Magistrate of the Second Class. Always verify against the bare Act.

IPC → BNS

IPC 499/500 in BNS: Section 356

Defamation

IPC

499/500

BNS

356

Bailable: YesCognizable: NoCompoundable: Yes

Offence: Defamation
Punishment: Simple imprisonment up to 2 years, or fine, or both.
Triable by: Magistrate of the Second Class
Note: BNS 356 consolidates the former definition (IPC 499) and punishment (IPC 500) into one section with sub-clauses.

Open the IPC→BNS converter

Sourced & verified

Source: jurigram.com (499→356); golegalconsultancy.com (500→356, same target section). Verified on 2026-07-11. Reference only — not legal advice. Verify against the official Gazette notification and the bare Act before relying on it in any filing.

Frequently asked

What is the BNS equivalent of IPC 499/500?: IPC Section 499/500 (Defamation) corresponds to Section 356 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, which came into force on 1 July 2024.
What is the punishment under BNS Section 356?: Simple imprisonment up to 2 years, or fine, or both.
Is it bailable and cognizable?: Bailable: Yes. Cognizable: No. Triable by: Magistrate of the Second Class. Always verify against the bare Act.

Frequently asked

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