Indian Penal Code, 1860 / Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita
IPC, 1860 / BNS, 2023 tests general exceptions, mental elements, offences against person and property, and group liability. The BNS replaced the IPC from 1 July 2024, retaining most offences with renumbering.
General principles
Crime requires actus reus and mens rea, subject to strict liability. General exceptions (IPC ss.76-106; BNS corresponding provisions) include mistake, necessity, infancy, insanity and private defence. Private defence must be proportionate and is not available against a lawful act. Common intention under s.34 IPC / s.3(5) BNS requires a prior meeting of minds; common object under s.149 IPC (with its BNS equivalent) applies to an unlawful assembly.
Offences
Murder under s.300 IPC / s.103 BNS is culpable homicide with special mens rea; the distinction turns on intention, knowledge and the exceptions. Theft (s.378 IPC / s.303 BNS) requires dishonest intention to take movable property without consent. Robbery is aggravated theft or extortion; dacoity requires five or more persons.
Worked example
A points a loaded pistol at B and demands B's wallet. B hands it over in fear of instant death. This is robbery, not extortion, because the property is taken by putting the victim in fear of instant hurt and the taking is immediate. If A had threatened future harm, extortion may be the better charge.
Traps
Do not confuse murder with culpable homicide not amounting to murder. Attempt requires an act proximate to the offence, not mere preparation. BNS numbers differ, so cite both where the question uses transitional law. Group liability needs unlawful assembly or common intention, not mere presence.