IPC Section 24 vs BNS Section 24 – Definition of Dishonestly
Indian Penal Code (IPC)
Bhartiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS)
Section: IPC 24
Definition of “Dishonestly”
About IPC Section
Section 24 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), 1860, defines the term “Dishonestly.” According to this section, a person is said to act dishonestly when the act is done with the intention of causing wrongful gain to one person or wrongful loss to another. This section ties directly to IPC Section 23, which defines wrongful gain and wrongful loss, thereby creating a complete framework for understanding dishonest acts in criminal law.
The importance of Section 24 lies in its application across multiple offenses such as theft, cheating, criminal breach of trust, misappropriation, and fraud. For instance, stealing property without consent is considered dishonest because it involves wrongful gain to the offender and wrongful loss to the rightful owner.
By providing a precise definition, IPC 24 eliminates ambiguity in interpreting criminal intent. It helps courts determine whether an act carries dishonest intention, which is a key factor in establishing criminal liability. Without this definition, differentiating between honest mistakes and criminally dishonest acts would be difficult. Thus, IPC Section 24 plays a crucial role in ensuring justice by holding accountable those who intentionally cause wrongful gain or wrongful loss through deceitful or unlawful actions.
Section: BNS 24
Definition of “Dishonestly” (Retained)
About BNS Section
Section 24 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, retains the definition of “Dishonestly” from the IPC, with only minor linguistic updates for modern clarity. It states that a person acts dishonestly if the intention is to cause wrongful gain to one individual or wrongful loss to another. This ensures continuity with the principles laid down under IPC 23 and IPC 24.
The BNS maintains this definition because dishonest intention is an essential ingredient in almost all property-related crimes. For example, theft, fraud, cheating, or misappropriation cannot be established unless it is proven that the act was done dishonestly. Hence, BNS Section 24 ensures that the criminal justice system continues to apply a consistent standard while determining culpability.
By modernizing the language, BNS 24 makes the law more accessible without altering its meaning. It reinforces the idea that dishonesty in law does not merely mean lying, but involves unlawful deprivation of property or rights with deliberate intent.
This provision remains a cornerstone of property crime jurisprudence, highlighting that intention is just as important as the act itself. Thus, BNS Section 24 keeps the definition of dishonestly intact, ensuring fairness and accountability in criminal law.