IPC Section 372
Section 372 IPC – Selling, letting to hire, or otherwise disposing of a minor for purposes of prostitution, etc.
This section deals with exploitation of minors for immoral purposes, particularly prostitution.
Main Provision
Whoever sells, lets to hire, or otherwise disposes of a minor (a person under 18 years of age)
For the purpose of prostitution, illicit intercourse, or sexual exploitation,
Shall be punished under this section.
Key Elements
Minor
The law specifically protects persons under 18 years of age.
Any act involving an adult does not fall under this section.
Acts Covered
Selling: Transferring ownership or control for money or other benefit.
Letting to hire: Renting or allowing someone to use the minor for immoral purposes.
Otherwise disposing of: Any other act that results in the minor being used for prostitution or sexual exploitation.
Purpose
The act must be for prostitution or sexual exploitation.
Punishment
Imprisonment for up to 10 years, and
Fine.
Purpose of Section 372
To protect minors from sexual exploitation and trafficking.
Recognizes that minors are vulnerable and require special protection under the law.
Example
A person arranges for a 16-year-old to work in a brothel for sexual purposes.
They are guilty under Section 372 IPC.
If the minor is above 18, other sections related to trafficking or prostitution may apply, but not Section 372.
✅ In short:
Section 372 IPC punishes anyone who sells, rents, or otherwise disposes of a minor for prostitution or sexual exploitation.
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