What is Section 372 IPC? Selling minor for purposes of prostitution
Published on: Lawiz Team
Learn about Section 372 IPC: Selling minor for purposes of prostitution
Official Legal Text
Whoever sells, lets to hire, or otherwise disposes of any person under the age of eighteen years with intent that such person shall at any age be employed or used for the purpose of prostitution or illicit intercourse with any person or for any unlawful and immoral purpose, shall be punished with imprisonment which may extend to ten years, and shall also be liable to fine.
What This IPC Section Means – Explained in Simple Words
Section 372 punishes anyone who sells, lets to hire, or disposes of a minor for the purpose of prostitution or any other form of exploitation.
Purpose
To protect minors from being exploited, sold, or forced into prostitution or other immoral acts.
Bailable or Not Bailable & Punishment
Bailable: Non-Bailable, Punishment: Imprisonment not less than 10 years, which may extend to life, and fine.
Key Elements
1. The victim must be a minor (under 18 years). 2. They must be sold, hired, or disposed of. 3. The intent must be for prostitution or any immoral purpose.
Punishment Details
Imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to 10 years, and a fine.
Illustrative Example
If a minor girl is sold to a brothel for the purpose of prostitution, it is an offence under Section 372.
Legal Defenses
If the accused can prove that the minor was not sold or that there was no intention for exploitation, they may be acquitted.
Related Sections
Related to Section 373 (Buying minor for prostitution) and Section 366A (Procuration of minor girl).
FAQs
What does Section 372 IPC define?
Selling, letting for hire or otherwise disposing of any person under 18 years for prostitution or illicit intercourse.
Punishment under Section 372 IPC?
Imprisonment up to 10 years and fine.
Is it cognizable?
Yes, cognizable and non-bailable.
Example?
Selling minor girl to a brothel.
Filing process?
Report immediately to police.
Court jurisdiction?
Sessions Court.
Possible defences?
Proving lack of knowledge about the transaction.