IPC Section 22 vs BNS Section 22 – Definition of Movable Property
Indian Penal Code (IPC)
Bhartiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS)
Section: IPC 22
Definition of “Movable Property”
About IPC Section
Section 22 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), 1860, defines the term “Movable Property.” According to this section, the phrase refers to corporeal property of every description, except land and things permanently attached to the earth. In simple terms, movable property means anything that can be physically moved from one place to another, such as money, goods, vehicles, furniture, jewelry, or other tangible items.
The purpose of this definition is to clearly distinguish movable property from immovable property (like land and buildings), as many criminal offenses under the IPC—such as theft, misappropriation, or criminal breach of trust—are specifically linked to movable property. By providing a precise legal meaning, Section 22 ensures consistency in applying penal provisions relating to property crimes.
This definition has been crucial in shaping the interpretation of property-related offenses in India. Without such clarity, courts might face difficulties in determining whether certain items fall within the scope of theft or misappropriation. Therefore, IPC 22 plays a vital role in criminal jurisprudence by safeguarding ownership rights over movable assets and ensuring legal remedies against unlawful deprivation.
Section: BNS 22
Definition of “Movable Property” (Retained)
About BNS Section
Section 22 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, retains the definition of “Movable Property” from the Indian Penal Code (IPC) with little to no substantive change. It continues to define movable property as all corporeal property except land and items permanently attached to the earth.
This updated code has preserved the original intent of IPC 22 because the distinction between movable and immovable property remains fundamental in criminal law. Offenses like theft, robbery, and misappropriation primarily involve movable property, making this definition indispensable for legal clarity.
The BNS version streamlines the language to make it more contemporary and easier to interpret, but the scope and meaning remain effectively the same. Items such as money, personal belongings, vehicles, and goods still fall under movable property, while land and buildings remain outside its purview.
By retaining this section, the BNS ensures continuity and avoids unnecessary confusion for courts, legal practitioners, and citizens. The unchanged definition highlights that certain foundational legal principles—like the distinction between movable and immovable assets—are timeless and need no overhaul. Thus, BNS 22 continues to provide a clear framework for addressing crimes involving property.