IPC Section 312: Causing miscarriage

Indian Penal Code, 1860 · Chapter 16: Offences affecting the Human Body

Repealed on 1 July 2024 and replaced by the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 (BNS).

Whoever voluntarily causes a woman with child to miscarry, shall, if such miscarriage be not caused in good faith for the purpose of saving the life of the woman, be punished with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to three years, or with fine, or with both, and, if the woman be quick with child, shall be punished with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to seven years, and shall also be liable to fine.

Explanation

A woman who causes herself to miscarry, is within the meaning of this section.

CLASSIFICATION OF OFFENCE

Para I

Punishment-Imprisonment for 3 years, or fine or both-Non-cognizable-Non-bailable-Triable by Magistrate of the first class-Non-compoundable.

Para II

Punishment-Imprisonment for 7 years and fine-Non-cognizable-Bailable-Triable by Magistrate of the first class-Non-compoundable.

Study: explanations and related material

Now BNS 88 (same provision). IPC → BNS converterSource: BPR&D BNS–IPC corresponding section table (UP Police, 2024-06-28), p6

Official reference: Delhi District & Sessions Judge: government historical reference — source link checked: 2 October 2026.Recorded edition / snapshot date: 2024-06-30.Mobile-app reference import; the recorded snapshot date is not a fresh legal-currency guarantee. The linked government text is an independent authoritative reference, not certification that this website reproduces the same edition. The source link was checked, not every provision or subsequent amendment. Check commencement notifications, savings and jurisdiction-specific variations separately. Historical code retained for reference; read the repeal/savings provisions in the successor code.

This text is for reference, not legal advice. Consult the official source for the authoritative text.

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