Section 96 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023
**Section 96 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023 – Procuration of a Child**
Section 96 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, criminalizes the act of procuring a child for illicit sexual purposes. Specifically, it addresses situations where an individual induces or persuades a child to leave a location or engage in an activity with the intent, or knowledge, that the child will be subjected to forced or seduced illicit intercourse with another person.([ipclaws.in][1], [vakilsearch.com][2])
**Key Provisions:**
* **Offense Description:** Inducing or persuading a child to go from any place or to do any act with the intent that the child may be, or knowing that it is likely that the child will be, forced or seduced to illicit intercourse with another person.([prashantkanha.com][3])
* **Punishment:** Imprisonment for a term which may extend to ten years, along with a fine. ([thelawadvice.com][4])
**Explanation and Illustration:**
This section aims to protect children from being exploited or coerced into situations of sexual abuse. It criminalizes actions where an individual intentionally or knowingly induces a child to engage in activities that could lead to illicit sexual intercourse.([vakilsearch.com][2])
**Example Scenario:**
A person persuades a child to leave their home with promises of a better life, knowing that the child will be subjected to sexual exploitation. This act would fall under the provisions of Section 96.([ipclaws.in][1])
**Comparison with Indian Penal Code (IPC):**
Section 96 of the BNS, 2023, is similar to Section 366A of the Indian Penal Code, which deals with the procuration of a minor girl under the age of eighteen years. However, the BNS uses the term "child," making it gender-neutral and applicable to all minors, irrespective of gender. ([prashantkanha.com][3], [vakilsearch.com][2])
**Purpose and Protection:**
The primary objective of Section 96 is to safeguard children from sexual exploitation and trafficking. By criminalizing the act of procuration, the law seeks to deter individuals from engaging in or facilitating such activities, thereby ensuring the protection and well-being of children in society.([vakilsearch.com][2], [ipclaws.in][1])
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