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Section 144 — Exploitation of a trafficked person
144
144
Exploitation of a trafficked 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 TraffickingSexual ExploitationChild ProtectionSevere
🗣️ Simple Explanation
What does this law say? Section 144 of the BNS makes it a crime to exploit a person who has been trafficked. If you know or have reason to believe someone was trafficked, and you use them for sexual exploitation, you are breaking the law.
Why does this law exist? This law protects victims of trafficking from further harm. It aims to punish those who exploit trafficked individuals. This ensures that victims are protected.
Real-life impact This law helps protect victims of human trafficking from sexual exploitation. It ensures that those who exploit them are punished. It helps prevent further abuse.
What happens if you break this law? If you exploit a trafficked child, you could go to jail for 5 to 10 years. If you exploit a trafficked adult, you could go to jail for 3 to 7 years. You will also have to pay a fine. Police can arrest you without a warrant.
⚖️ Punishment

Imprisonment for at least three years, which can extend to ten years, and a fine.

💡 Real Life Example

A man knows a child has been trafficked and forces the child into sexual activity. This violates Section 144. Legal consequence: The man faces 5 to 10 years in prison and a fine.

A woman knows an adult has been trafficked and forces the adult into sexual activity. This is also a violation. Legal consequence: The woman could face 3 to 7 years in prison and a fine.

🛡️ KNOW YOUR RIGHTS
  • •Report any knowledge of exploitation of trafficked persons to the police.
  • •Seek legal help if you are accused of exploiting a trafficked person.
  • •Refuse to participate in any form of exploitation.
❓ FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Section 144 of the BNS makes it illegal to exploit a person who has been trafficked. If you know or have reason to believe someone was trafficked and you use them for sexual exploitation, you are breaking the law. This law aims to protect victims from further harm. This section replaces the old law.
The punishment for exploiting a trafficked person under Section 144 varies. If it involves a child, you could face 5 to 10 years in prison. If it involves an adult, you could face 3 to 7 years. 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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