CrPC to BNSS
CrPC Section 320 in BNSS: Section 359
Section 320 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973 (Compounding of offences) corresponds to Section 359 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023.
Last updated 9 October 2026
CrPC 320 and BNSS 359 at a glance
| CrPC (old) | BNSS (new) | |
|---|---|---|
| Section | 320 | 359 |
| Heading | Compounding of offences | Compounding of offences |
| Mapping | Direct equivalent | |
What CrPC Section 320 covered
Sets out, in two tables, the offences that may be compounded by the person named and those that may be compounded only with the permission of the court, and provides that composition has the effect of an acquittal.
What changed in BNSS Section 359
BNSS Section 359 keeps the two-table structure, with the offences now listed by their BNS section numbers. Check the table for the specific offence, because some entries changed when the IPC was replaced.
Which law applies: CrPC or BNSS?
The BNSS came into force on 1 July 2024. Under Section 531 of the BNSS, an appeal, application, trial, inquiry or investigation that was pending immediately before that date is to be disposed of, continued, held or made under the CrPC as if the BNSS had not come into force. Courts have had to decide how this applies to cases that straddle the date, so check current case law for your facts.
Read the full text of both provisions before you cite them. The official bare acts are published on India Code.
CrPC 320: common questions
What is the new section for CrPC 320?
CrPC Section 320 (Compounding of offences) corresponds to Section 359 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023 (BNSS).
What changed between CrPC 320 and BNSS 359?
BNSS Section 359 keeps the two-table structure, with the offences now listed by their BNS section numbers. Check the table for the specific offence, because some entries changed when the IPC was replaced.
Does CrPC Section 320 still apply to older cases?
The BNSS came into force on 1 July 2024. Under Section 531 of the BNSS, an appeal, application, trial, inquiry or investigation that was pending immediately before that date is to be disposed of, continued, held or made under the CrPC as if the BNSS had not come into force. Courts have had to decide how this applies to cases that straddle the date, so check current case law for your facts.
Related CrPC sections
- CrPC 313 to BNSS 351 · Examination of accused
- CrPC 353 to BNSS 392 · Judgment
- CrPC 309 to BNSS 346 · Adjournments
- CrPC 228 to BNSS 251 · Framing of charge
- CrPC 207 to BNSS 230 · Supply of documents
- CrPC 202 to BNSS 225 · Inquiry before process
- CrPC 200 to BNSS 223 · Private complaint
- CrPC 197 to BNSS 218 · Sanction to prosecute
Map any section inside Settl
The signed-in Section Mapper converts sections in both directions across the IPC, CrPC and Evidence Act and their replacements, alongside your matter files, drafts and court diary.
Not legal advice. This comparison is a research starting point. A mapped section is not proof that two provisions are identical. Read both bare acts, check commencement and any later amendment, and have a qualified advocate review anything you intend to rely on. Settl is not a law firm.