IPC Section 509: Word, gesture or act intended to insult the modesty of a woman
Whoever, intending to insult the modesty of any woman, utters any word, makes any sound or gesture, or exhibits any object, intending that such word or sound shall be heard, or that such gesture or object shall be seen, by such woman, or intrudes upon the privacy of such woman, shall be punished with simple imprisonment for a term which may extend to three years, and also with fine1.
1 Criminal Law (Amendment) Act, 2013
IPC Section 509: Simplified Explanation
IPC Section 509 deals with the offence of “Word, gesture, or act intended to insult the modesty of a woman.” This section is intended to protect women from any word, sound, gesture, or object intended to insult their modesty. The focus is on the perpetrator’s intent to disrespect or demean a woman’s dignity through various forms of communication or actions.
Is IPC Section 509 bailable?
IPC Section 509 is bailable. This classification means that an individual accused under this section has the right to be released on bail, provided they meet the conditions set by the court.
IPC Section 509 Punishment
Under IPC Section 509, an offence is punishable by imprisonment for a term that may extend to three years and a fine. This penalty reflects the seriousness of actions that threaten women’s dignity and modesty.
Example of IPC Section 509
A real-life example of IPC Section 509 could involve a scenario where a woman is walking down a street, and a man makes lewd gestures and comments towards her, clearly intended to insult her modesty. Feeling violated and demeaned, the woman reports the incident to the police. The man is subsequently arrested and charged under IPC Section 509, as his actions were directly aimed at insulting the woman’s modesty through his gestures and words.
