What is Section 373 IPC? Buying minor for purposes of prostitution
Published on: Lawiz Team
Learn about Section 373 IPC: Buying minor for purposes of prostitution
Official Legal Text
Whoever buys, hires or otherwise obtains possession 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 373 punishes anyone who buys, hires, or obtains a minor for the purpose of prostitution or other immoral purposes.
Purpose
To prevent the exploitation of minors by making it an offence to buy or obtain them for immoral purposes.
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 bought, hired, or obtained. 3. The intent must be for prostitution or other immoral purposes.
Punishment Details
Imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to 10 years, and a fine.
Illustrative Example
If a person buys a minor for forced labor or prostitution, it is an offence under Section 373.
Legal Defenses
If the accused can prove that the minor was not bought or obtained for immoral purposes, they may be acquitted.
Related Sections
Related to Section 372 (Selling minor for prostitution) and Section 366A (Procuration of minor girl).
FAQs
What does Section 373 IPC define?
Buying or hiring a minor under 18 years for purposes of prostitution or illicit intercourse.
Punishment under Section 373 IPC?
Imprisonment up to 10 years and fine.
Is it cognizable?
Yes, it is cognizable and non-bailable.
Example situation?
Buying a minor girl for exploitation in a brothel.
Jurisdiction?
Sessions Court.
How to lodge complaint?
FIR at police station immediately.
Possible defences?
Proving absence of exploitation intention.