BNS Section 88
What punishment does the law prescribe for causing a miscarriage to a pregnant woman?
Short answer
Imprisonment up to 3 years (or fine) if not to save her life, and up to 7 years (plus fine) if she is quick with child.
In detail
Section 88 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 makes it a criminal offence to voluntarily cause a pregnant woman to miscarry, unless it is done in good faith to save her life. If the miscarriage is caused without this life‑saving justification, the offender can be sentenced to imprisonment for any description for a term that may extend to three years, or be fined, or both. When the woman is "quick with child" (i.e., in the later stages of pregnancy), the maximum imprisonment increases to seven years, and a fine is also imposed. The provision expressly includes a woman who causes her own miscarriage, meaning self‑induced abortion is also covered. Consent from the woman does not provide a defence; the law focuses on the act and the absence of a life‑saving purpose.
Related questions
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Hurt means causing bodily pain, disease, or infirmity to any person.
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Yes, a magistrate can order him to pay a monthly allowance and enforce it with fines or up to one month in jail.
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Not legal advice. This is general legal information, not legal advice. Laws change and every case turns on its own facts — speak to a lawyer about your situation.