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IPC Section 354 – Assault or Criminal Force on Woman — Galexia
Galexia
IPC Section 354 – Assault or Criminal Force on Woman
by Harvinder Tokas
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· Apr 15, 2026
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IPC Section 354
Assault or Criminal Force to Woman with Intent to Outrage Her Modesty
📜 Definition
Whoever assaults or uses criminal force on any woman, intending to outrage or knowing it to be likely
that he will thereby outrage her modesty, shall be punished.
354A — Sexual Harassment
Acts include:
• Unwelcome physical contact & advances
• Demand or request for sexual favours
• Showing pornography against will
• Sexual remarks (verbal / non-verbal)
Punishment: Up to 3 years + fine (rigorous)
354B — Assault to Disrobe
Acts include:
• Assault or criminal force with intent to
disrobe a woman
• Abetting such an act
• Compelling the woman to be naked
Punishment: 3–7 years + fine
354C — Voyeurism
Acts include:
• Watching or capturing a woman engaged in
a private act without her consent
• Disseminating such image/video
• Includes bathrooms, changing rooms, etc.
Punishment: 1st offence: 1–3 yrs | Repeat: 3–7 yrs
354D — Stalking
Acts include:
• Repeatedly following or contacting a woman
• Monitoring her use of internet, email, etc.
• Fostering personal interaction despite her
disinterest
Punishment: 1st offence: 3 yrs | Repeat: 5 yrs
⚖️ Note:
These sections were inserted by the Criminal Law (Amendment) Act, 2013 following the Nirbhaya case.
All offences under 354 are cognizable (police can arrest without warrant) and non-bailable.