The Indian Penal Code (IPC) is India's primary criminal code. Enacted in 1860, it defines a wide range of criminal offenses, including those against persons, property, morality, and the state. The IPC serves as the legal framework for prosecuting and punishing individuals who commit crimes in India, and it is essential for maintaining law and order in the country. It covers various aspects of criminal law, from murder and theft to sedition and adultery, and is a fundamental reference for judges, lawyers, and law enforcement agencies.