BNSS Section 101 — Power to compel restoration of abducted females

Summary

If a woman or a female child has been taken away or held against her will for an illegal reason, a District Magistrate, Sub-divisional Magistrate, or a Magistrate of the first class can act on a sworn complaint. The Magistrate can order that the woman be set free immediately, or that the female child be returned to her parent, guardian, or the person who is legally responsible for her. The Magistrate has the power to enforce this order, including using whatever force is needed to make sure it is followed.

Official Text

Upon complaint made on oath of the abduction or unlawful detention of a woman, or a female child for any unlawful purpose, a District Magistrate, Sub-divisional Magistrate or Magistrate of the first class may make an order for the immediate restoration of such woman to her liberty, or of such female child to her parent, guardian or other person having the lawful charge of such child, and may compel compliance with such order, using such force as may be necessary.

Related Judgments

• SC (2025) Vol.6 p.545 — Supreme Court of India (2025)
• SC (2025) Vol.5 p.730 — Supreme Court of India (2025)
• SC (2024) Vol.7 p.979 — Supreme Court of India (2024)
• .. Petitioner/Accused No.12 vs The State of Tamilnadu, — Madras High Court ()
• SC (2025) Vol.2 p.1588 — Supreme Court of India (2025)
• SC (2025) Vol.3 p.1309 — Supreme Court of India (2025)
• SC (2025) Vol.8 p.785 — Supreme Court of India (2025)
• SC (2025) Vol.1 p.1469 — Supreme Court of India (2025)

Old <-> New Code Mapping

• CrPC §98 — Power to compel restoration of abducted females