In India, infanticide is defined as the unlawful killing of a child under what age, and the MOST common method used is:
- A Under 12 months (neonate/infant); smothering or exposure ✓
- B Under 5 years; drowning
- C Under 3 years; blunt head trauma
- D Under 6 months; drowning in a water source
Correct answer: A. Under 12 months (neonate/infant); smothering or exposure
Explanation
Infanticide in forensic medicine and law refers to the unlawful killing of a child under 12 months of age (typically a neonate, within the first few days of life). The most common methods include smothering (suffocation), exposure (abandonment in cold or harsh conditions), and occasionally drowning. Female infanticide by drowning or burying the neonate is a significant problem in parts of India. The IPC/BNS treats infanticide differently from murder due to the postpartum mental state of the mother.
Reference: The Essentials of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology (Narayan Reddy), 34th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.