The Home Ministry informed the Lok Sabha on Tuesday that crimes against women and children have been given precedence “for the first time” and placed under a dedicated chapter in the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023.
In response to a query from BJP MP Anil Baluni during the Question Hour, Minister of State for Home Affairs Bandi Sanjay Kumar emphasized that the new criminal code introduces stringent penalties, including the death sentence, for severe offenses against women.
“Punishment for gang rape of a woman below the age of 18 years is life imprisonment till the remainder of the convict’s natural life or death. A new offense has also been incorporated in BNS for engaging in sexual intercourse under false promises of marriage, employment, promotion, or by concealing identity,” Kumar stated.
Human Trafficking and Exploitation Addressed
The Home Ministry underscored the government’s commitment to combating human trafficking. Section 143 of the BNS prescribes strict punishments, with imprisonment extending up to life for offenses related to human trafficking. For cases involving children, the punishment will be no less than 10 years and can extend to life imprisonment.
Additionally, the act introduces beggary as a form of exploitation under trafficking crimes, making it punishable under Section 143. Furthermore, Section 144 (1) of the BNS lays out stringent penalties for the sexual exploitation of trafficked children, with a minimum sentence of five years, which may extend to life imprisonment.
A Landmark Legal Reform
The government highlighted that for the first time, provisions dealing specifically with crimes against women and children have been grouped into a single chapter within the legal framework. This move aims to provide a more focused approach to tackling such offenses and ensuring stronger protection for vulnerable groups.
With these legislative reforms, the government seeks to establish a robust legal mechanism to deter crimes against women and children while ensuring justice is served effectively
