Under BNS 2023 (previously IPC 375), non-consensual penetration of the vagina or anus by an object other than the penis is classified as:
- A Outraging the modesty of a woman — BNS Section 74
- B Unnatural offence under BNS Section 110
- C Sexual assault by non-penile penetration — a lesser offence separate from rape
- D Rape — the definition of rape under BNS Section 63 specifically includes penetration by any object ✓
Explanation
Following the Criminal Law (Amendment) Act 2013 (Verma Committee recommendations), the definition of rape was broadened to include penetration by any object or body part (not just the penis) into the vagina, mouth, urethra, or anus without consent. This expanded definition is carried forward into BNS Section 63. Forensic examination of sexual assault victims must document injuries relevant to object penetration, and the medicolegal examiner should refrain from using the two-finger test (prohibited per guidelines) and instead rely on speculum examination and colposcopy.
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.