Section 93Exposure and abandonment of child under twelve years of age, by parent or person having care of it
93
93
Exposure and abandonment of child under twelve years of age, by parent or person having care of it
Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023
Chapter V Of Offences Against Woman and Child
⚖️
Reviewed by Advocate Aditi Babbar, Seasoned Advocate · Practicing since 31 years
📅 Updated 2026-04-10📚 Source: The Gazette of India
Offences Against ChildChild AbandonmentSerious Offence
🗣️ Simple Explanation
What does this law say? Section 93 of the BNS makes it a crime for a parent or caregiver to abandon a child under twelve years old. If you leave a child in a place with the intention of abandoning them, you could be in trouble.
Why does this law exist? This law protects vulnerable children. It ensures that children are cared for and not left to fend for themselves.
Real-life impact This law affects parents and caregivers. It makes sure they understand their responsibility to care for children. It prevents children from being abandoned.
What happens if you break this law? You could face up to seven years in jail, a fine, or both. The police can arrest you without a warrant.
⚖️ Punishment

Imprisonment up to seven years, or fine, or both.

💡 Real Life Example

A parent leaves their child at a bus stop, intending never to return. This is abandonment. Legal consequence: The parent could face imprisonment and a fine.
A caregiver leaves a child in a park and doesn't come back, intending to abandon the child. This is a violation of the law. Legal consequence: The caregiver could face imprisonment and a fine.

🛡️ KNOW YOUR RIGHTS
  • Contact a lawyer immediately if accused.
  • Understand the charges against you.
  • Gather evidence to support your case.
  • You have the right to legal aid (Article 39A).
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Section 93 of the BNS addresses the abandonment of a child under twelve years old by a parent or caregiver. It focuses on the act of leaving a child in a place with the intention of abandoning them. This section replaces the old law related to similar offenses.
If you violate Section 93, you could face imprisonment for up to seven years, a fine, or both. The punishment depends on the specific circumstances of the abandonment. The police can arrest you without a warrant.
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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