Section 375 of the Indian Penal Code, 1860 deals with which of the following offences?

The correct answer is Rape.

Key Points

• Section 375 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), 1860 specifically defines the offence of rape, outlining the acts that constitute the crime.
• The section describes rape as sexual intercourse by a man with a woman under certain circumstances, such as without her consent, against her will, or under coercion.
• It also includes cases where the woman’s consent is obtained through misrepresentation, intoxication, or if she is of unsound mind or below the age of 18 years.
• Rape is considered one of the most severe crimes under Indian law and carries strict penalties, including imprisonment and fines.
• Section 376 of the IPC deals with the punishment for rape, with varying degrees of penalties based on the circumstances of the crime.

Additional Information

• Consent: Consent in legal terms means a voluntary agreement to engage in a specific act. In cases of rape, absence of consent is a critical factor in defining the crime.
• POCSO Act: The Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012 complements Section 375 of the IPC, addressing sexual offences against minors.
• Marital Rape: India does not fully recognize marital rape as a criminal offence under Section 375, except in specific circumstances such as separation or judicial decree.
• Amendments: The Criminal Law (Amendment) Act, 2013, commonly known as the Nirbhaya Act, introduced stricter punishments for rape and other sexual offences, including the death penalty in certain cases.
• Reporting and Protection: The Indian legal system provides mechanisms such as FIR registration and victim protection to ensure justice and safety for rape survivors.