IPC 364A vs BNS 364A – Kidnapping for Ransom or Extortion
Indian Penal Code (IPC)
Bhartiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS)
Section: IPC 364A
Kidnapping for Ransom, etc.
About IPC Section
Section 364A of the Indian Penal Code, 1860, was added later through amendments to address the growing threat of kidnapping for ransom. It criminalizes the act of kidnapping, abducting, or detaining a person and threatening to cause death, hurt, or harm in order to compel the government, any foreign state, an international organization, or any other person to act or pay ransom.
The punishment prescribed is death penalty or life imprisonment along with fine. This makes it one of the most severe provisions under the IPC, reflecting the seriousness of the crime.
This law was enacted in response to rising cases of terrorist and organized criminal activities involving abductions for ransom. For example, if a child is kidnapped and the parents are threatened with harm unless money is paid, the accused is punishable under IPC 364A. The section ensures strong deterrence against ransom-driven abductions.
Section: BNS 364A
Kidnapping for Ransom, etc.
About BNS Section
Section 364A of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, directly corresponds to IPC 364A and covers kidnapping for ransom or to compel action. It applies when a person kidnaps, abducts, or detains someone and threatens to kill, hurt, or otherwise harm them to force the government, foreign state, international body, or any person to act or pay ransom.
The punishment remains death or life imprisonment, along with fine. The section under BNS continues to serve as a robust safeguard against ransom-related crimes, which often endanger human life and create terror in society.
The provision ensures protection for individuals and the state by discouraging ransom demands backed by abductions. For example, if extremists abduct officials or civilians to pressurize the government for political or financial concessions, they will be liable under BNS 364A.