IPC 366 vs BNS 366 – Kidnapping or Abduction of Women
Indian Penal Code (IPC)
Bhartiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS)
Section: IPC 366
Kidnapping, abducting, or inducing woman to compel marriage or seduction
About IPC Section
Section 366 of the Indian Penal Code, 1860, addresses the offence of kidnapping, abducting, or enticing a woman with the intent to compel her into marriage, or to seduce her. It primarily protects women from being forcibly taken or misled for immoral or coercive purposes.
Key points:
-
The woman may be of any age, but special protection is given to minors under other related sections.
-
The act can include force, deceit, or abduction.
-
Punishment: imprisonment up to 10 years and fine.
For example, if a man abducts a woman to marry her against her will or to engage in sexual activity, it qualifies as an offence under IPC 366. This section ensures protection of women from coercion, abduction, and sexual exploitation, preserving individual liberty and dignity.
Section: BNS 366
Kidnapping, abducting, or inducing woman to compel marriage or seduction
About BNS Section
Section 366 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, mirrors IPC 366. It punishes any person who kidnaps, abducts, or entices a woman to force her into marriage or seduce her. The provision maintains the same scope and punishment as IPC.
The offence is committed if a woman is taken by force or deceit for coercive purposes. The punishment prescribed is imprisonment up to 10 years and fine, reflecting the seriousness of violating a woman’s autonomy and freedom.
For instance, tricking or abducting a woman to compel her into marriage against her consent falls under BNS 366. This provision continues to uphold the protection of women against abduction, coercion, and sexual exploitation.