What is Section 377 IPC? Unnatural offences
Published on: Lawiz Team
Learn about Section 377 IPC: Unnatural offences
Official Legal Text
Whoever voluntarily has carnal intercourse against the order of nature with any man, woman or animal, shall be punished with imprisonment for life, or with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to ten years, and shall also be liable to fine.
What This IPC Section Means – Explained in Simple Words
Section 377 punishes anyone who voluntarily engages in carnal intercourse against the order of nature with any man, woman, or animal.
Purpose
Originally intended to criminalize sexual acts considered 'against the order of nature,' including bestiality.
Bailable or Not Bailable & Punishment
Bailable: Non-Bailable, Punishment: Imprisonment up to 10 years, or imprisonment for life, and fine.
Key Elements
1. The act must involve carnal intercourse. 2. It must be against the order of nature. 3. It can be with a man, woman, or animal.
Punishment Details
Imprisonment for life, or imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to 10 years, and a fine.
Illustrative Example
If a person engages in sexual acts with an animal, it is considered an unnatural offence under Section 377.
Legal Defenses
If the act is between consenting adults in private, recent judgments have decriminalized it for adults.
Related Sections
Related to Section 375 (Rape) and Section 354 (Outraging modesty of a woman).
FAQs
What does Section 377 IPC define?
Unnatural offences.
How is 'Unnatural offences' interpreted in law?
It is interpreted based on the Indian Penal Code and relevant case law.
Where is Section 377 IPC applicable?
Its application depends on the legal context and the nature of the offence involved.
Can you give a practical example for Section 377?
Examples include real-life cases involving unnatural offences.
Is Section 377 used along with other IPC sections?
Yes, it is often cited alongside related criminal provisions.
How do courts interpret Section 377 IPC?
Courts interpret it using past judgments and statutory interpretations.
Why is Section 377 significant?
It holds importance in the framework of criminal law.