IPC 371 - Habitual dealing in slaves
Description of IPC 371
Description of IPC Section 371
According to section 371 of Indian penal code, Whoever habitually imports, exports, removes, buys, sells traffics or deals in slaves, shall be punished with imprisonment for life, or with imprisonment of either description for a term not exceeding ten years, and shall also be liable to fine.
IPC 371
| Offence | Habitual dealing in slaves |
| Punishment | Life or 10 Years + Fine |
| Cognizance | Cognizable |
| Bail | Non-Bailable |
| Triable | Sessions Court |
Life imprisonment or imprisonment for up to 10 years, plus a fine.
IPC 371 in Simple Words
In the Indian Penal Code, anyone who regularly engages in importing, exporting, buying, selling, trafficking, or dealing in slaves can be punished with either life imprisonment or imprisonment for up to ten years, and fined.
Importance and Practical application
Addresses the severe crime of ongoing involvement in slavery.
Practical application:
A case arises where an individual is found to be repeatedly trafficking women into forced labor and sexual exploitation. Law enforcement discovers that this person has a long history of buying and selling individuals for profit, effectively operating a human trafficking ring. Under IPC Section 371, this individual could face life imprisonment or up to 10 years of imprisonment, along with a fine, for their habitual dealing in slaves. This example underscores the legal commitment to combat slavery and trafficking, ensuring that those involved in such heinous activities face severe consequences.Conclusion
Provides severe penalties for continuous engagement in the slave trade.