Code – Section 84 BNS
Whoever takes or entices away any woman who is and whom he knows or has
reason to believe to be the wife of any other man, with intent that she may have illicit
intercourse with any person, or conceals or detains with that intent any such woman, shall
be punished with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to two
years, or with fine, or with both.
Explanation of Section 84 BNS
What Does This Section Cover?
- Punishes individuals who entice, take away, or detain a married woman.
- Intent matters – The act must be done with the purpose of illicit intercourse.
- Protects married women from being lured away unlawfully.
Key Legal Aspects:
- The woman must be married for this section to apply.
- The accused must know or have reason to believe that the woman is married.
- Punishment – Up to 10 years of imprisonment + fine.
🔗 Read Section 83 BNS – Marriage Ceremony Fraudulently Gone Through Without Lawful Marriage
Illustrations
Example 1: Luring a Married Woman Away
A man convinces a married woman to leave her husband with false promises of marriage but with the intent of engaging in illicit relations. This is punishable under Section 84 BNS.
Example 2: Hiding a Married Woman Against Her Husband’s Will
A person detains a married woman at a location, knowing that she is married and with the intent of preventing her from returning to her husband. This act falls under Section 84 BNS.
Example 3: Taking a Married Woman for an Illicit Relationship
If a person takes a married woman away from her home under false pretenses and later forces her into an illicit relationship, he can be charged under Section 84 BNS.
Common Questions and Answers on Section 84 BNS
1. Is Section 84 BNS a bailable offense?
- No, it is a non-bailable offense, meaning bail is not easily granted.
2. Can a woman be punished under this section?
- No, this section specifically penalizes those who entice, take away, or detain a married woman, not the woman herself.
3. What if the woman goes willingly?
- Even if she goes willingly, if the accused had criminal intent, they can still be punished under Section 84 BNS.
4. Can a husband file a complaint under this section?
- Yes, the husband or a legal guardian can file a case if they believe a person has unlawfully taken away or detained his wife with illicit intent.
5. How does this section differ from abduction laws?
- Abduction laws cover any form of forceful taking or detainment, whereas Section 84 BNS specifically applies to married women and requires criminal intent for illicit intercourse.
Conclusion
Section 84 BNS safeguards the institution of marriage by penalizing those who unlawfully interfere with a married woman’s relationship. If you or someone you know has been a victim of such unlawful acts, legal assistance is available.
For detailed legal guidance, visit ApniLaw today! 🚀