Section 374 of IPC : Section 374: Unlawful compulsory labour

Explanation using Example

Example 1:

Ravi is a farmer in a small village in India. He owes a significant amount of money to a local moneylender, Mr. Sharma. Unable to repay the debt, Mr. Sharma forces Ravi to work on his farm without pay, threatening him with harm if he refuses. Ravi is compelled to work against his will due to the threat. Under Section 374 of the Indian Penal Code, Mr. Sharma can be prosecuted for unlawfully compelling Ravi to labour against his will. If found guilty, Mr. Sharma could face imprisonment for up to one year, a fine, or both.

Example 2:

Meena is a domestic worker employed by Mrs. Gupta in a metropolitan city. Mrs. Gupta locks Meena in the house and forces her to work long hours without any breaks or additional pay. Meena is not allowed to leave the house and is threatened with physical harm if she tries to escape or refuses to work. This situation constitutes unlawful compulsory labour as Meena is being forced to work against her will. Under Section 374 of the Indian Penal Code, Mrs. Gupta can be charged and, if convicted, could be sentenced to imprisonment for up to one year, fined, or both.