What is Section 354B IPC? Assault or use of criminal force to woman with intent to disrobe
Published on: Lawiz Team
Learn about Section 354B IPC: Assault or use of criminal force to woman with intent to disrobe
Official Legal Text
Any man who assaults or uses criminal force to any woman or abets such act with the intention of disrobing or compelling her to be naked, shall be punished with imprisonment of either description for a term not less than three years but which may extend to seven years, and shall also be liable to fine.
What This IPC Section Means – Explained in Simple Words
Section 354B punishes anyone who assaults or uses criminal force against a woman with the intention of disrobing her.
Purpose
To protect women from being forcibly disrobed or stripped against their will.
Bailable or Not Bailable & Punishment
Bailable: Non-Bailable, Punishment: Imprisonment not less than 3 years, which may extend to 7 years, and fine.
Key Elements
1. The victim must be a woman. 2. There must be an act of assault or criminal force. 3. The intent must be to disrobe or strip the woman.
Punishment Details
Imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to seven years, and fine.
Illustrative Example
If a person attempts to forcibly remove a woman's clothes without her consent, it is an offence under Section 354B.
Legal Defenses
If the accused can prove that there was no intention to disrobe, or that the act was consensual, they may be acquitted.
Related Sections
Related to Section 354 (Outraging modesty) and Section 376 (Rape).
FAQs
What constitutes offence under Section 354B IPC?
Assaulting or using criminal force intending to disrobe a woman.
What punishment is given under Section 354B IPC?
Minimum 3 years to maximum 7 years imprisonment, and fine.
Is Section 354B cognizable and bailable?
Yes, cognizable and non-bailable offence.
Give an example situation under Section 354B IPC.
Tearing a woman's clothes forcibly.
How to file complaint under Section 354B IPC?
File FIR immediately at police station.
Which court handles Section 354B IPC?
Sessions Court.
What defences are available?
False implication and absence of intent may be used as defence.