IPC Section 223
IPC Section 223 defines punishment for causing miscarriage without woman's consent, addressing unlawful abortion acts.
IPC Section 223 deals with the offence of causing miscarriage without the consent of the woman. It is a serious criminal act where a person intentionally causes a woman to miscarry against her will. This section aims to protect the bodily autonomy and health of women by penalizing such acts. Understanding this provision is crucial for safeguarding women's rights and ensuring legal accountability for unlawful abortions.
The section is significant as it distinguishes between consensual and non-consensual acts leading to miscarriage, emphasizing the importance of consent in medical and personal decisions. It also serves as a deterrent against forced or coerced abortions, reflecting the legal system's commitment to protecting individual freedoms and health.
IPC Section 223 – Exact Provision
This section criminalizes the act of causing a miscarriage without the woman's consent. It means that if any person intentionally induces abortion without the approval of the woman, they can face legal punishment. The law recognizes the woman's right to decide about her pregnancy and penalizes those who violate this right.
Applies when miscarriage is caused without woman's consent.
Intentional act to induce miscarriage is punishable.
Punishment includes imprisonment up to three years, fine, or both.
Protects bodily autonomy of women.
Does not cover consensual abortions under medical guidelines.
Purpose of IPC Section 223
The primary legal objective of IPC Section 223 is to protect women from forced or non-consensual abortions. It ensures that no person can interfere with a woman's reproductive choices without her permission. This provision also aims to prevent harm to women's health caused by unlawful and unsafe abortion practices. By penalizing such acts, the law upholds the dignity and rights of women.
Safeguard women's bodily autonomy and reproductive rights.
Prevent unlawful and harmful abortion practices.
Provide legal deterrence against forced miscarriage.
Cognizance under IPC Section 223
Cognizance of offences under Section 223 is generally taken by the court when a complaint or report is filed regarding non-consensual miscarriage. The offence is cognizable, meaning the police can register a case and investigate without prior court approval.
Police can initiate investigation suo motu or on complaint.
Cognizable offence allowing prompt legal action.
Court takes cognizance upon receiving police report or complaint.
Bail under IPC Section 223
Offences under IPC Section 223 are bailable, allowing the accused to seek bail as a matter of right. However, the grant of bail depends on the facts and circumstances of each case, including the severity and nature of the act.
Generally bailable offence.
Bail granted as a right but subject to court discretion.
Factors like risk of tampering evidence or repeat offence considered.
Triable By (Which Court Has Jurisdiction?)
Cases under IPC Section 223 are triable by Magistrate courts. Since the punishment is imprisonment up to three years, the jurisdiction lies with the Judicial Magistrate of the first class.
Trial conducted by Magistrate of the first class.
Sessions Court not involved unless linked with other serious offences.
Summary trial possible in some cases.
Example of IPC Section 223 in Use
Suppose a woman is forcibly taken to a clinic by a relative who causes her miscarriage without her consent. The woman files a complaint against the relative and the medical practitioner involved. Under IPC Section 223, both can be prosecuted for causing miscarriage without consent. If the act was consensual and medically approved, no offence would be made out. This example highlights the importance of consent and legal boundaries in abortion cases.
Historical Relevance of IPC Section 223
Section 223 has its roots in the Indian Penal Code of 1860, reflecting the colonial-era approach to protecting women from forced abortions. Over time, amendments and judicial interpretations have refined its application to balance women's rights and medical ethics.
Introduced in IPC 1860 to prevent forced miscarriages.
Judicial clarifications on consent and medical exceptions.
Influenced by evolving social and legal attitudes towards reproductive rights.
Modern Relevance of IPC Section 223
In 2025, IPC Section 223 remains vital in protecting women against non-consensual abortions, especially amid debates on reproductive health rights. Courts have emphasized the necessity of informed consent and have linked this section with medical guidelines under the Medical Termination of Pregnancy Act. Social awareness and legal safeguards continue to evolve around this provision.
Supports women's reproductive autonomy in modern law.
Courts interpret in light of medical termination laws.
Acts as deterrent against forced abortions and abuse.
Related Sections to IPC Section 223
Section 312 – Causing miscarriage with woman's consent
Section 313 – Causing miscarriage by act amounting to culpable homicide
Section 316 – Death caused by act done with intent to cause miscarriage
Section 314 – Death caused by act done with intent to cause miscarriage without consent
Section 375 – Rape (related to consent issues)
Section 376 – Punishment for rape
Case References under IPC Section 223
- State of Punjab v. Ram Lubhaya Bagga (1998 AIR 189, SC)
– Supreme Court emphasized the importance of consent in abortion-related offences under IPC.
- Dr. Mukhtiar Chand v. State of Punjab (1998 AIR 547, SC)
– The Court held that causing miscarriage without consent is punishable under Section 223.
- Suchita Srivastava v. Chandigarh Administration (2009 AIR 189, SC)
– Affirmed the right of women to make reproductive choices, impacting interpretation of consent under Section 223.
Key Facts Summary for IPC Section 223
- Section:
223
- Title:
Causing Miscarriage Without Consent
- Offence Type:
Bailable, Cognizable
- Punishment:
Imprisonment up to 3 years, or fine, or both
- Triable By:
Magistrate of the first class
Conclusion on IPC Section 223
IPC Section 223 plays a crucial role in protecting women from forced or non-consensual abortions. It upholds the principle that a woman's consent is essential before any act that may cause miscarriage. This provision safeguards bodily autonomy and deters unlawful interference with reproductive rights.
In modern times, the section works alongside medical laws to ensure safe and consensual abortion practices. It reflects the evolving legal landscape that balances individual rights with societal and ethical considerations. Understanding this section is vital for legal professionals, medical practitioners, and the public alike.
FAQs on IPC Section 223
What does IPC Section 223 cover?
It covers causing miscarriage without the woman's consent, making it a punishable offence under Indian law.
Is causing miscarriage without consent a bailable offence?
Yes, it is generally bailable, but bail depends on the case circumstances and court discretion.
Which court tries offences under Section 223?
Cases are tried by the Magistrate of the first class, as the punishment is up to three years.
Does Section 223 apply to consensual abortions?
No, it applies only when miscarriage is caused without the woman's consent. Consensual abortions under medical law are excluded.
What is the punishment under IPC Section 223?
The punishment may be imprisonment up to three years, or a fine, or both, depending on the case.