This section explains the criminal offences people in Bangalore most often face, either as complainants or as the accused. Each guide covers what the offence means, what the prosecution must prove, the punishment, and what to do next.
From 1 July 2024, offences are defined by the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 (BNS), which replaced the Indian Penal Code. Offences committed before that date are still tried under the IPC. Each guide gives both the old IPC section and the new BNS section, so you can follow cases under either law.
Cyber Fraud: How to Complain and Recover Money
Lost money to an online or UPI scam? Call 1930, report on the cybercrime portal, and see which IT Act and BNS sections apply and how a lawyer can help.
498A and Dowry Harassment Cases (BNS 85 and 86)
Cruelty and dowry harassment cases under BNS 85 and 86 (old IPC 498A): arrest safeguards, bail, mediation and quashing, for both sides, in Bangalore.
Cheque Bounce Under Section 138 NI Act
Cheque bounce under Section 138 of the Negotiable Instruments Act: the 30-day notice, the 15-day payment window, complaint deadlines, punishment and settlement.
Criminal Breach of Trust
Criminal breach of trust explained: what it means, how it differs from cheating, punishment under the old IPC 406 and now BNS 316, with common examples.
Criminal Intimidation Under IPC 506 (BNS 351)
Criminal intimidation under IPC 506, now BNS 351: what counts as a threat, the punishment for simple and serious threats, and how to respond to a complaint.
Intentional Insult Under IPC 504 (BNS 352)
Intentional insult to provoke a breach of the peace under old IPC 504, now BNS 352: what the offence covers, the punishment, and when a complaint will stand.
Criminal Conspiracy
Criminal conspiracy under old IPC 120A and 120B, now BNS 61: what the prosecution must prove, the punishment, and how courts treat agreements to commit crimes.
Criminal Defamation vs Civil Defamation
Criminal vs civil defamation in India: a complaint under IPC 499–500 (now BNS 356) compared with a civil suit for damages, with defences and remedies.
White-Collar Crime in India
White-collar crime in India: fraud, embezzlement, money laundering and corporate offences, the laws that apply, and how such cases are investigated.
Rape Laws in India
Rape laws in India: the definition, punishment and procedure under the old IPC and now BNS 63 to 70, the rights of the survivor, and fast-track trials.
Criminal Law Amendment Act 2013
The Criminal Law Amendment Act 2013: new offences, a wider definition of rape, stricter punishment, and how the BNS carried these changes forward.
Prosecution of Offences Against the State
Prosecution of offences against the State under old CrPC 196, now BNSS 217: why government sanction is needed and how such cases proceed.
Miscarriage vs Abortion in Indian Law
Miscarriage vs abortion in Indian law: termination under the MTP Act, and when causing a miscarriage is an offence under the old IPC and the BNS.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which law applies to my case, the IPC or the BNS?
It depends on when the offence was committed. Offences on or after 1 July 2024 fall under the BNS. Earlier offences, even if the FIR is filed later, are generally tried under the IPC.
Is cheque bounce a criminal offence?
Yes. Dishonour of a cheque for a legally enforceable debt is an offence under Section 138 of the Negotiable Instruments Act, but only if the legal notice and complaint deadlines are met. Many cases settle once the complaint is filed.
Can a civil dispute be turned into a criminal case?
Only if there is a genuine criminal element, such as cheating from the start, forgery or breach of trust. Courts, including the Karnataka High Court, often quash criminal cases that are really civil disputes in disguise.
Related: criminal procedure guides on bail, FIRs and trials, and criminal justice topics.
Need advice on your own case?
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