Section 370 of IPC : Section 370: Trafficking Of Person

Explanation using Example

Imagine a scenario where an individual, Mr. X, promises several young adults lucrative job opportunities in a foreign country. Mr. X arranges their travel and accommodation, but upon arrival, the victims are forced into labor without pay and under poor living conditions. This is a classic case of human trafficking where Mr. X:

• Recruited the victims by promising them jobs,
• Transported them to another country,
• Harboured them in confined accommodations,
• Used deception to lure them into the situation, and
• Abused his power and control over the victims.

Mr. X's actions fall under the definition of trafficking according to Section 370 of The Indian Penal Code, 1860, aiming for exploitation, which includes forced labor. Even if the victims initially consented to travel based on the job promise, their consent is irrelevant to the crime of trafficking as per the act.

Under this law, Mr. X could face rigorous imprisonment of seven to ten years, along with a fine, for each adult trafficked. If minors were involved, the punishment would be even more severe, potentially leading to life imprisonment.