IPC 354 vs BNS 354
● Retained in BNSAssault or Criminal Force to Woman with Intent to Outrage Her Modesty
Section 354 of the Indian Penal Code, 1860, deals with cases where a person assaults or uses criminal force against a woman with the intent to outrage her modesty. This section is critical in protecting women from sexual harassment, molestation, or any act that violates personal dignity.
Key points:
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Applies when force or assault is used against a woman with lewd or immoral intent.
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Punishment: Imprisonment up to 2 years, or fine, or both.
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Protects women’s dignity, personal security, and bodily autonomy.
For example, forcibly touching a woman or making obscene gestures with intent to insult her modesty falls under IPC 354. This law ensures strict legal accountability for acts that threaten women’s safety and honor.
Assault or Criminal Force to Woman with Intent to Outrage Her Modesty
Section 354 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, mirrors IPC 354. It punishes acts where a person assaults or uses criminal force against a woman to outrage her modesty.
Key points:
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Covers acts of molestation, sexual harassment, or lewd behavior.
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Punishment: Imprisonment up to 2 years, or fine, or both.
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Ensures protection of women’s dignity and personal security.
For instance, attempting to forcibly touch or intimidate a woman with lewd intent qualifies under BNS 354. This section maintains continuity in safeguarding women against sexual harassment.
What changed?
This provision was carried over to the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita with substantially the same wording — the section was renumbered from IPC IPC 354 to BNS BNS 354.