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IPC 326 vs BNS 326 – Grievous Hurt by Dangerous Weapons or Means

Comparison
Same

Indian Penal Code (IPC)

VS.

Bhartiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS)

Section: IPC 326

Voluntarily Causing Grievous Hurt by Dangerous Weapons or Means

About IPC Section

Section 326 of the Indian Penal Code, 1860, is one of the most serious provisions related to hurt. It deals with cases where a person voluntarily causes grievous hurt using dangerous weapons or hazardous means.

Dangerous means include:

  • Weapons like knives, swords, firearms, or sharp instruments.

  • Hazardous methods like fire, heated substances, poison, corrosives, explosives, or any harmful substance.

Punishment under IPC 326:

  • Imprisonment for life, or

  • Imprisonment up to 10 years, and

  • Fine.

This section highlights the seriousness of grievous injuries inflicted using lethal methods, which can cause permanent disability or endanger life. For example, an acid attack causing disfigurement falls under IPC 326.

Section: BNS 326

Voluntarily Causing Grievous Hurt by Dangerous Weapons or Means

About BNS Section

Section 326 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, corresponds to IPC 326 and retains its scope. It criminalizes voluntarily causing grievous hurt by using deadly weapons or dangerous means.

Like IPC 326, it includes:

  • Sharp or deadly weapons like daggers, blades, and firearms.

  • Dangerous substances such as fire, corrosive liquids, acid, poison, or explosives.

Punishment under BNS 326 remains:

  • Imprisonment for life, or

  • Imprisonment up to 10 years, and

  • Fine.

For example, if a person intentionally throws acid on someone causing permanent scarring or disability, it is punishable under BNS 326. This ensures continuity of strong deterrence against acts involving dangerous instruments of violence.