Section 9 IPC - Number: Singular and Plural Interpretation
Section 9 of the Indian Penal Code, 1860 established a rule for interpreting singular and plural expressions in criminal law. The corresponding provision under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 is Section 2(22).
Text of Section 9 of the Indian Penal Code
Section 9, titled “Number”, provided:
Unless the contrary appears from the context, words importing the singular number include the plural number, and words importing the plural number include the singular number.
Meaning and explanation of Section 9 IPC
The provision is a general rule of statutory interpretation. Ordinarily, a word expressed in the singular may cover more than one person, object or act; conversely, a plural expression may cover a single person, object or act. This prevents an interpretation from turning solely on grammatical number when the legislative context does not require that distinction.
The qualification is important: the rule operates only where the context does not indicate a contrary intention. It cannot override express statutory wording, the structure of an offence, or requirements that clearly depend on a particular number of persons or acts.
Corresponding law: Section 2(22) of BNS, 2023
Section 2(22) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 defines “number” using the same interpretative rule:
Unless the contrary appears from the context, words importing the singular number include the plural number, and words importing the plural number include the singular number;
This provision appears in the definitions under Chapter I of the BNS. It is a rule of interpretation, not an independent criminal offence.
| Point | IPC (historical) | BNS (current) |
|---|---|---|
| Provision | Section 9 | Section 2(22) |
| Heading or defined term | Number | Number |
| Subject | Singular and plural interpretation | Singular and plural interpretation |
| Independent punishment | None | None |
| Legal status | Repealed subject to savings | In force from 1 July 2024 |
Practical illustrations
1. A singular word may include several
Where a statutory expression refers to a single item, it may also cover multiple items if the provision and surrounding context permit that reading. The actual elements of the offence must still be established.
2. A plural word may include one
A reference to multiple items may sometimes apply to a single item, unless the statutory language or purpose requires a plurality.
3. Context can exclude the general rule
Where a criminal provision expressly requires participation by a specified minimum number of persons, the general rule concerning singular and plural expressions cannot be used to dispense with that requirement.
Does Section 9 IPC prescribe any punishment?
No. Section 9 IPC was an interpretative provision. Similarly, Section 2(22) BNS defines how words referring to number are understood; neither provision creates an offence or independently prescribes imprisonment or a fine.
Which law applies after 1 July 2024?
The BNS generally governs offences committed after its commencement, subject to its commencement provisions. For conduct predating 1 July 2024, the IPC and applicable savings provisions may remain relevant. Section 358 BNS addresses repeal and savings. The applicable law should be assessed with reference to the date of the alleged act and the relevant transitional rules.
Frequently asked questions
What is Section 9 IPC?
It is the former IPC rule stating that singular words include plural words and plural words include singular words, unless the context indicates otherwise.
What is the equivalent of IPC Section 9 in BNS?
Section 2(22) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023.
Is Section 9 IPC still in force?
The IPC was repealed with effect from 1 July 2024, subject to savings. Its provisions may continue to matter for earlier conduct and related legal proceedings.
Is Section 9 BNS the replacement for Section 9 IPC?
No. Section 9 BNS concerns the limit of punishment for an offence made up of several offences. The corresponding rule for Section 9 IPC is found in Section 2(22) BNS.
Official legal sources
- India Code: Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 (official Act PDF)
- Ministry of Home Affairs: New Criminal Laws
- National Crime Records Bureau: Criminal law section correspondence tables
Updated: 28 October 2026. This article is for general legal information; application to a specific case depends on its facts and the governing law.