Section 145 of BNS 2023: Penalties for Dealing in Slaves

Overview

Section 145 of BNS 2023 addresses the severe offense of dealing in slaves. It imposes stringent penalties on individuals who habitually engage in the import, export, removal, purchase, sale, trafficking, or dealing of slaves.

Punishment

  • Imprisonment: Life imprisonment or imprisonment for up to ten years
  • Fine: Additional liability to fine

Key Elements

  • Habitual Offense: The act must be habitual, indicating regular involvement in slave trade activities.
  • Types of Activities: Importing, exporting, removing, buying, selling, trafficking, or dealing in slaves.

Examples

  1. Regular Slave Trade: A person habitually buys and sells individuals as slaves. This act is punishable under Section 145 with life imprisonment or up to ten years of imprisonment and a fine.
  2. Trafficking Network: A person involved in an organized network that traffics individuals for slavery on a regular basis. This incurs the same severe penalties.

Historical Context

The abolition of slavery has been a fundamental goal in legal systems worldwide. The Indian Penal Code (IPC) laid initial groundwork for combating slavery, which BNS 2023 strengthens to address modern challenges and ensure stricter enforcement.

Legislative Intent

The legislative intent behind Section 145 of BNS 2023 is to eradicate slavery by imposing severe penalties on habitual offenders. The law aims to deter such activities and ensure the protection and freedom of individuals from exploitation.

Conclusion

Section 145 of BNS 2023 is essential for combating the habitual trade in slaves. By defining clear and stringent penalties, it aims to eliminate such practices and promote a more just and humane society.


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