What is Section 354 IPC? Assault or criminal force to woman with intent to outrage modesty
Published on: Lawiz Team
Learn about Section 354 IPC: Assault or criminal force to woman with intent to outrage modesty
Official Legal Text
Whoever assaults or uses criminal force to any woman, intending to outrage or knowing it to be likely that he will thereby outrage her modesty, shall be punished with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to five years, and shall also be liable to fine.
What This IPC Section Means – Explained in Simple Words
Section 354 punishes anyone who assaults or uses criminal force against a woman with the intent to outrage her modesty.
Purpose
To protect women from any form of assault or criminal force that is intended to insult, harass, or violate their dignity.
Bailable or Not Bailable & Punishment
Bailable: Non-Bailable, Punishment: Imprisonment of either description for a term which shall not be less than 1 year but which may extend to 5 years, and fine.
Key Elements
1. There must be an act of assault or use of criminal force. 2. The victim must be a woman. 3. The intent must be to outrage her modesty.
Punishment Details
Imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to two years, or a fine, or both.
Illustrative Example
If a person touches a woman inappropriately or makes offensive gestures towards her, it is an offence under Section 354.
Legal Defenses
If the accused can prove that the act was not done with the intent to outrage the woman's modesty, they may be acquitted.
Related Sections
Related to Section 354A (Sexual harassment), Section 354B (Assault with intent to disrobe), and Section 509 (Insulting modesty of a woman).
FAQs
What constitutes offence under Section 354 IPC?
Assault or criminal force intended to outrage the modesty of a woman.
What is punishment for offence under Section 354 IPC?
Imprisonment up to 5 years, and fine.
Is Section 354 IPC cognizable?
Yes, it is cognizable and non-bailable.
Give an example of Section 354 IPC.
Touching a woman inappropriately without consent.
How to file complaint under Section 354 IPC?
Approach police station and lodge FIR immediately.
Which court tries cases under Section 354 IPC?
Sessions Court handles Section 354 IPC cases.
Can false implication be a defence?
Yes, accused can raise defence of false and motivated implication.