BNS Section 65 — Punishment for rape in certain cases

CHAPTER V OF OFFENCES AGAINST WOMAN AND CHILD

Criminal

Summary

Sub-section (1) covers rape of a woman under sixteen years of age. The punishment is rigorous imprisonment for a term of not less than twenty years, which may extend to imprisonment for life, meaning imprisonment for the remainder of the person's natural life. The offender is also liable to a fine. The first proviso states that such fine shall be just and reasonable to meet the medical expenses and rehabilitation of the victim. The second proviso states that any fine imposed under this sub-section shall be paid to the victim.

Sub-section (2) covers rape of a woman under twelve years of age. The punishment is rigorous imprisonment for a term of not less than twenty years, which may extend to imprisonment for life, meaning imprisonment for the remainder of the person's natural life, and the offender is also liable to a fine or to the death penalty. The first proviso states that such fine shall be just and reasonable to meet the medical expenses and rehabilitation of the victim. The second proviso states that any fine imposed under this sub-section shall be paid to the victim.

Official Text

(1) Whoever, commits rape on a woman under sixteen years of age shall be punished with rigorous imprisonment for a term which shall not be less than twenty years, but which may extend to imprisonment for life, which shall mean imprisonment for the remainder of that person’s natural life, and shall also be liable to fine:

Provided that such fine shall be just and reasonable to meet the medical expenses and rehabilitation of the victim:

Provided further that any fine imposed under this sub-section shall be paid to the victim.

(2) Whoever, commits rape on a woman under twelve years of age shall be punished with rigorous imprisonment for a term which shall not be less than twenty years, but which may extend to imprisonment for life, which shall mean imprisonment for the remainder of that person’s natural life, and with fine or with death:

Provided that such fine shall be just and reasonable to meet the medical expenses and rehabilitation of the victim:

Provided further that any fine imposed under this sub-section shall be paid to the victim.

Related Judgments

  • SC (2025) Vol.3 p.1309 — Supreme Court of India (2025)
  • SC (2025) Vol.11 p.291 — Supreme Court of India (2025)
  • SC (2025) Vol.6 p.280 — Supreme Court of India (2025)
  • SC (2025) Vol.3 p.1531 — Supreme Court of India (2025)
  • SC (2024) Vol.8 p.670 — Supreme Court of India (2024)
  • SC (2025) Vol.7 p.105 — Supreme Court of India (2025)
  • SC (2025) Vol.9 p.283 — Supreme Court of India (2025)
  • SC (2024) Vol.6 p.129 — Supreme Court of India (2024)