The parliamentary committee recommends concealing marital status for sexual activity an offence

Attempt to prevent Love Jihad

(Photo Credits: The Law Advice)

New Delhi – A parliamentary panel is recommending the proposed BNS (Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita) Bill to include the act of concealing one’s existing marital status when marrying or engaging in sexual activity with a woman as a form of deceitful means that constitutes an offence under Clause 69 of the legislation. The punishment for this offence can include imprisonment for up to 10 years and a fine.

The BNS Bill aims to introduce a new provision that considers engaging in sexual relations with a woman based on false promises of marriage or other inducements, such as employment, as well as marrying someone after concealing one’s identity, as an offence.

The proposal to introduce the new offence in the BNS Bill appears to be a response to Love Jihad.

The Committee said that there are many such cases presently in the Courts. This will be presented in the winter session of the Parliament after it is re-examined by the Indian Penal Code, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, and Bharatiya Purava Adhiniyam. This session will begin on 4th December.