A bare act is the official text of a law, without commentary. These are the Acts our readers use most. Each link opens the authoritative government source. Search the Act's name on India Code, the Government of India's official repository of central and state laws.
Constitution
- The Constitution of IndiaFundamental Rights (Part III), Directive Principles, Union and States, amendments. Official text from the Legislative Department.
Criminal law (in force from 1 July 2024)
- Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 (BNS)Replaced the Indian Penal Code, 1860. Defines offences and punishments. IPC → BNS finder
- Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023 (BNSS)Replaced the CrPC, 1973. Covers FIR, arrest, bail, investigation and trial.
- Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam, 2023 (BSA)Replaced the Indian Evidence Act, 1872. Covers relevance, proof and electronic evidence.
- Negotiable Instruments Act, 1881Section 138: cheque bounce cases.
- Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005Protection orders, residence and monetary relief.
- Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act, 2012 (POCSO)Sexual offences against children and child-friendly procedure.
Civil, consumer and citizen rights
- Consumer Protection Act, 2019Consumer commissions, product liability, unfair trade practices. Our guide
- Right to Information Act, 2005Your right to government information. Our guide
- Code of Civil Procedure, 1908Procedure for civil suits, decrees, appeals and execution.
- Limitation Act, 1963Time limits for filing suits and appeals.
- Indian Contract Act, 1872Formation, validity and breach of contracts.
Property
- Transfer of Property Act, 1882Sale, mortgage, lease and gift. Rent agreement guide
- Registration Act, 1908Which documents must be registered.
- Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act, 2016 (RERA)Homebuyer protection and builder obligations.
Family
- Hindu Marriage Act, 1955Marriage, divorce, restitution and maintenance for Hindus, Sikhs, Jains and Buddhists.
- Hindu Succession Act, 1956Inheritance, including daughters' coparcenary rights.
- Special Marriage Act, 1954Civil marriage regardless of religion.
Work, business and technology
- Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace Act, 2013 (POSH)Internal Committees and complaints. Vishaka case
- Information Technology Act, 2000Cyber offences, electronic records and intermediaries.
- Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023Personal data rights and obligations of data fiduciaries.