New Criminal Laws Place Crimes Against Women and Children at the Forefront
New Delhi: The Union Home Ministry has prioritized tackling crimes against women and children by placing them under a dedicated chapter in the newly enacted Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). Minister of State (MoS) for Home Affairs, Bandi Sanjay Kumar, announced this in response to a question from BJP MP Anil Baluni during the Question Hour in the Lok Sabha.
Strict Punishments for Crimes Against Women and Children
Kumar highlighted that the revised legal framework includes stringent punishments, including the death sentence, for offences against women. Notably, he emphasized that gang rape of a woman below the age of 18 years will now be punishable with either life imprisonment until the convict’s natural death or the death penalty.
Additionally, the government has introduced a new provision criminalizing sexual intercourse obtained under false pretenses, including promises of marriage, employment, or promotion, as well as acts committed by concealing one’s identity.
Government’s Commitment to Combating Human Trafficking
The MoS stated that the government remains steadfast in its efforts to curb human trafficking. Under Section 143 of the BNS, the government has established strict punishments, extending up to life imprisonment, for human trafficking offences.
Furthermore, if someone traffics a child, they shall receive a punishment of at least 10 years of imprisonment, which may extend to life imprisonment. This provision also recognizes beggary as a form of trafficking-related exploitation.
Punishment for Sexual Exploitation of Trafficked Children
The minimum punishment for such offences starts at five years of imprisonment, which may extend to life imprisonment, underscoring the government’s firm stance on protecting vulnerable minors from abuse and exploitation.
New Criminal Laws Replace British-Era IPC
MP Baluni raised concerns about the priority given to crimes against women and children in the new legal framework. Kumar affirmed that the BNS, 2023, consolidates crimes against these vulnerable groups under one dedicated chapter for the first time.
The new laws replace the colonial-era Indian Penal Code (IPC) and address contemporary challenges in crime prevention and justice delivery. The reforms reflect the government’s commitment to ensuring the safety and security of women and children through more effective legal mechanisms.
Conclusion
The introduction of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita represents a significant shift in India’s legal landscape, with a renewed focus on safeguarding the rights of women and children. By imposing strict penalties and prioritizing justice for victims, the government aims to create a more secure and just society.
