CrPC to BNSS — the procedural code, renumbered
The Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023 replaced the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC), 1973 on 1 July 2024. It carries forward most of the CrPC’s scheme but renumbers it and adds new provisions (electronic trials, mandatory forensic steps, timelines). This converter gives the BNSS equivalent of any CrPC section — and the reverse — from the official NCRB comparative table, so you cite the right provision in bail applications, charge-sheets, revisions and appeals.
Key section changes to remember
Some of the most-cited moves: FIR in cognizable cases — Section 154 → 173; statements to police — 161 → 180; recording of confessions/statements — 164 → 183; default/statutory bail and remand — 167 → 187; maintenance — 125 → 144; regular bail before Sessions/High Court — 439 → 483; anticipatory bail — 438 → 482; inherent powers of the High Court — 482 → 528. The old “metropolitan magistrate” structure is removed, and several provisions are marked deleted or newly added.
Frequently asked questions
- What is the BNSS equivalent of CrPC Section 154?
- FIR in cognizable cases, earlier Section 154 CrPC, is now Section 173 of the BNSS, 2023.
- Which code applies to my case — CrPC or BNSS?
- As a rule of thumb, proceedings arising from an FIR registered on or after 1 July 2024 follow the BNSS; those registered earlier continue under the CrPC. Transitional provisions govern pending matters.