IPC 184 vs BNS 184
● Retained in BNSPublic servant disobeying law with intent to cause injury
Section 184 of the Indian Penal Code, 1860, deals with the offence of a public servant knowingly disobeying law with the intention of causing injury or inconvenience. This provision ensures that officials act within legal boundaries and maintain accountability in their duties.
Key points of IPC 184:
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Applies when a public servant intentionally violates legal provisions while performing duties.
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Covers acts causing harm, injury, or disadvantage to individuals, public, or government interests.
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Punishment: imprisonment up to 6 months, or fine, or both.
For example, a municipal officer deliberately ignoring building safety regulations resulting in risk to public safety falls under IPC 184.
This section safeguards lawful administration and public safety, ensuring that officials act responsibly and within the scope of their powers.
Public servant disobeying law with intent to cause injury
Section 184 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, mirrors IPC 184. It penalizes public servants who knowingly violate legal provisions intending to cause harm, loss, or inconvenience, promoting integrity and accountability in administration.
Key points of BNS 184:
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Covers intentional disobedience or neglect of law by public servants.
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Punishment: up to 6 months imprisonment, or fine, or both.
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Ensures officials cannot misuse position to cause injury or advantage others unlawfully.
For instance, a government official ignoring environmental regulations for personal gain can be prosecuted under BNS 184.
This provision strengthens rule of law and public confidence, deterring officials from unlawful or harmful actions while performing official duties.
What changed?
This provision was carried over to the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita with substantially the same wording — the section was renumbered from IPC IPC 184 to BNS BNS 184.