Old law lookup
IPC Section 509
Word/gesture intended to insult modesty of a woman
New section under BNS
BNS Section 79— Word, gesture or act intended to insult modesty of a woman
Effective for any FIR, charge sheet, or filing on or after 1 July 2024. Matters that arose before that date continue under the IPC.
What the new section does
This section penalises any person who, intending to insult the modesty of a woman, utters words, makes sounds or gestures, exhibits any object, or intrudes upon her privacy. The offence is directed at conduct intended to be perceived by the woman.
- Punishment
- Simple imprisonment for a term which may extend to three years, and fine.
- Triable by
- Any Magistrate
- Cognizable
- No
- Bailable
- Yes
For the full text of the new section, see the linked BNS page above. For the binding statutory text, refer to the India Code or the Gazette of India. This reference is informational, not legal advice.