The new criminal laws have few important women centric changes.
Firstly, the offences related to women and children has been consolidated under chapter V of BNS
Deceitful relationship : Section 69 of the BNS introduces a new offence of deceitful sexual intercourse. The Explanation accompanying this provision specifies that ‘deceptive methods’ cover scenarios such as falsely promising a job or promotion, enticing someone into marriage by concealing one’s true identity etc. However, unlike other sections in this chapter, there is no minimum punishment. The maximum punishment prescribed under the Section is 10 years of imprisonment.
Age of consent : A significant change introduced by the BNS is, the age of consent within the definition of rape (Section 63 of the BNS/section 375 of the IPC) with an increase from 15 to 18 years.
Changes in recording statement : Section 176 BNSS allows recording of rape victims statement at her residence and also allowing audio-video recording, including mobile phone.
Woman Police officer to record the statement of victim of sexual assault:Sec. 180 BNSS provides that The statement of a woman, against whom sexual assault is alleged to have been committed or attempted, shall be recorded by a woman police officer or any woman officer. Such statements may also be recorded by audio-video electronic means. These are in relation to offences under section 64- 71 section 74- 79 of BNS .
Exemption from going to police station: Sec 179 BNSS provides that Women, persons above 60 or with acute illness not bound to attend Police station. This exemption for women is useful as still much apprehension exists in society .
Rape victims report : Section 184(6) BNSS – Medical practitioners are mandated to send the medical report of a victim of rape to the investigating officer within 7 days.
