Section 143Trafficking of person
143
143
Trafficking of person
Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023
Chapter VI Of Offences Affecting The Human Body
⚖️
Reviewed by Advocate Aditi Babbar, Seasoned Advocate · Practicing since 31 years
📅 Updated 2026-04-10📚 Source: The Gazette of India
Human TraffickingExploitationForced LaborSevere
🗣️ Simple Explanation
What does this law say? Section 143 of the BNS deals with human trafficking. It is a crime to recruit, transport, or receive a person for exploitation. This can be done through threats, force, fraud, or by offering money.
Why does this law exist? This law aims to stop human trafficking. It protects people from being exploited for labor, sex, or other harmful purposes. It ensures that victims are safe.
Real-life impact This law helps prevent people from being forced into slavery or other forms of exploitation. It protects vulnerable individuals from being trafficked. It ensures that those who commit these crimes are punished.
What happens if you break this law? The punishment depends on the situation. It can range from seven years to life in prison. You will also have to pay a fine. Police can arrest you without a warrant.
⚖️ Punishment

Imprisonment for at least seven years, which can extend to life, and a fine.

💡 Real Life Example

A man tricks a woman into working in a factory with false promises. This is trafficking under Section 143. Legal consequence: The man faces at least 7 years in prison and a fine.

A group of people abduct children and force them to beg. This is also trafficking. Legal consequence: The group faces a minimum of 10 years in prison and a fine.

🛡️ KNOW YOUR RIGHTS
  • Report any suspicion of human trafficking to the police.
  • Seek help from NGOs if you are a victim of trafficking.
  • Refuse to cooperate with anyone involved in trafficking.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Section 143 of the BNS addresses human trafficking. It makes it a crime to recruit, transport, or receive a person for exploitation. This includes using threats, force, fraud, or offering money. This law aims to protect people from being exploited. This section replaces the old law.
The punishment for human trafficking under Section 143 varies. It can range from seven years to life in prison, depending on the circumstances. You will also have to pay a fine. The police can arrest you without a warrant. The punishment reflects the severity of the crime.
Sources & References

📒 Legal text sourced from The Gazette of India & AdvocateKhoj Bare Acts Library

⚖️ Content reviewed by Advocate Aditi Babbar, Seasoned Advocate, with 31 years of legal practice

📚 Act Reference: Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 (replaces IPC)

Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a qualified advocate for specific legal matters.

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