The word “man” denotes a male human being of any age; the word “woman” denotes a female human being of any age.
IPC Section 10: Simplified Explanation
Section 10 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) provides definitions for the terms “man” and “woman,” which are fundamental to understanding and applying various provisions of the IPC that involve gender-specific references. This section is crucial for the precise application of gender-specific laws or where the gender of the parties involved is relevant to the legal interpretation or outcome.
The section reads as follows:
- “Man” is defined as a male human being of any age.
- “Woman” is defined as a female human being of any age.
The simplicity of these definitions is deliberate, ensuring that the law can be applied clearly and unambiguously in cases where the distinction between male and female is legally significant. By defining “man” and “woman” in this way, the IPC ensures that all individuals are covered under the law in a manner that respects their gender identity as either male or female, without making unnecessary distinctions based on age or other characteristics.
This clear distinction is crucial in the context of various offences and legal provisions that specifically mention men or women, such as those relating to sexual crimes, marriage-related issues, and other matters where the individual’s gender is directly relevant to the application of the law.
It’s also worth noting that the IPC was drafted in the 19th century, and while these definitions provide clarity, the evolving understanding of gender identities and rights may prompt legal interpretations and amendments that reflect contemporary perspectives on gender beyond a binary framework.
