Section 145Habitual dealing in slaves
145
145
Habitual dealing in slaves
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
SlaveryHuman TraffickingExploitationSevere
🗣️ Simple Explanation
What does this law say? Section 145 of the BNS makes it a crime to regularly deal in slaves. This includes importing, exporting, buying, selling, or trafficking in slaves.
Why does this law exist? This law aims to abolish slavery. It punishes those who profit from the enslavement of others. This protects human rights.
Real-life impact This law helps prevent slavery. It ensures that those who engage in the slave trade are severely punished. It protects vulnerable people from being enslaved.
What happens if you break this law? If you habitually deal in slaves, you could go to jail for life or up to ten years. You will also have to pay a fine. Police can arrest you without a warrant.
⚖️ Punishment

Imprisonment for life or up to ten years, and a fine.

💡 Real Life Example

A person repeatedly buys and sells people as slaves. This violates Section 145. Legal consequence: The person faces imprisonment for life or up to 10 years and a fine.

A group of people regularly transports slaves across borders. This is also a violation. Legal consequence: The group could face the same penalties.

🛡️ KNOW YOUR RIGHTS
  • Report any suspicion of slave dealing to the police.
  • Seek legal help if you are accused of dealing in slaves.
  • Refuse to participate in any form of slavery.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Section 145 of the BNS makes it illegal to habitually deal in slaves. This includes importing, exporting, buying, selling, or trafficking in slaves. This law aims to abolish slavery and protect human rights. This section replaces the old law.
The punishment for habitually dealing in slaves under Section 145 is imprisonment for life or up to ten 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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