The Indian Penal Code (IPC) contains several provisions that criminalize crimes committed against women. Some of the key provisions in the IPC that pertain to women include:
- Section 375: This section defines the offence of rape, which includes sexual intercourse without consent, as well as other acts that can be considered as rape.
- Section 376: This section provides for the punishment for rape, which can be imprisonment for a term of not less than 7 years, but which may extend to life imprisonment.
- Section 376A-376D: These sections provide for the punishment for specific forms of sexual assault such as gang rape, repeat offenders and sexual assault on a minor.
- Section 354: This section criminalizes the offence of outraging the modesty of a woman.
- Section 354A: This section criminalizes the offence of sexual harassment.
- Section 354B: This section criminalizes the offence of assault or use of criminal force on a woman with the intent to disrobe.
- Section 354C: This section criminalizes the offence of voyeurism.
- Section 354D: This section criminalizes the offence of stalking.
- Section 509: This section criminalizes the offence of word, gesture or act intended to insult the modesty of a woman.
- Section 498A: This section criminalizes the offence of cruelty by husband or his relatives against a married woman.
It’s also worth noting that The Indian Penal Code (IPC) also contains provisions for crimes such as kidnapping, abduction, and wrongful confinement, which can be committed against women.