Sexual Offences and Abortion — MCQs

Sexual Offences and Abortion Indian Medical PG Practice Questions and MCQs

Question 71: Unnatural sexual offenses are dealt with under which section of the Indian Penal Code?

A. Section 375 IPC
B. Section 376 IPC
C. Section 377 IPC (Correct Answer)
D. Section 379 IPC

Explanation: **Explanation:** **Section 377 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC)** specifically deals with **Unnatural Offences**. It defines these as voluntary "carnal intercourse against the order of nature" with any man, woman, or animal. In forensic medicine, this primarily encompasses sodomy (anal intercourse), bestiality, and buccal coitus. **Analysis of Options:** * **Section 375 IPC:** Defines the legal criteria for **Rape**. It outlines the specific acts and circumstances (such as lack of consent or age) that constitute the offence of rape. * **Section 376 IPC:** Prescribes the **Punishment for Rape**. While Section 375 defines the crime, 376 (and its sub-sections like 376A-E) dictates the legal penalties. * **Section 379 IPC:** Pertains to the punishment for **Theft**, which is unrelated to sexual offences. **High-Yield Clinical Pearls for NEET-PG:** 1. **Navtej Singh Johar vs. Union of India (2018):** The Supreme Court of India **decriminalized consensual homosexual acts** between adults by reading down Section 377. However, it remains a criminal offence for non-consensual acts and bestiality. 2. **Medical Examination:** In cases of sodomy, look for **perianal findings** such as the "Duck-bill" shaped anus (in chronic cases), sphincter laxity, or acute findings like radial tears and fissures. 3. **Age of Consent:** Following the POCSO Act and 2013 amendments, the age of consent for sexual activities in India is **18 years**. 4. **Examination Protocol:** Consent for medical examination in sexual offences must be taken from the victim (if >12 years) or guardians, but the examination cannot be performed without the victim's specific consent even if police request it.

Question 72: Section 377 of the Indian Penal Code deals with which of the following?

A. Adultery
B. Rape
C. Incest
D. Unnatural sexual offence (Correct Answer)

Explanation: **Explanation:** **Section 377 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC)** defines and prescribes punishment for **unnatural sexual offences**. It states that whoever voluntarily has carnal intercourse against the order of nature with any man, woman, or animal shall be punished. * **Why Option D is Correct:** Section 377 specifically covers "unnatural offences," which traditionally included sodomy, buccal coitus, and bestiality. * *High-Yield Legal Update:* In the landmark **Navtej Singh Johar vs. Union of India (2018)** case, the Supreme Court of India decriminalized consensual homosexual acts between adults. However, Section 377 remains applicable to **non-consensual** unnatural acts and **bestiality**. **Analysis of Incorrect Options:** * **A. Adultery:** Formerly dealt with under **Section 497 IPC**, it was struck down as unconstitutional by the Supreme Court in 2018 (Joseph Shine case). It is no longer a criminal offence but remains a ground for divorce. * **B. Rape:** Defined under **Section 375 IPC** and punished under **Section 376 IPC**. It specifically pertains to non-consensual sexual acts committed by a man against a woman. * **C. Incest:** There is no specific separate section for "Incest" in the IPC. Such acts are usually prosecuted under Section 376 (Rape) or Section 354 (Outraging modesty), depending on the nature of the act. **Clinical Pearls for NEET-PG:** * **Bestiality:** Sexual intercourse with animals; it is the only part of Section 377 that remains fully criminalized regardless of consent. * **Medical Examination:** In cases of sodomy, look for **perianal findings** like the "funnel-shaped anus," loss of sphincter tone, and the presence of spermatozoa in anal swabs. * **New Laws:** Under the newly implemented **Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS)**, the provisions of Section 377 have been largely omitted, creating a significant legal shift regarding non-consensual unnatural acts between men.

Question 73: IPC Sections 312 and 315 are associated with which of the following?

A. Kidnapping and abduction
B. Attempted and abetment to suicide
C. Causing grievous hurt
D. Voluntary miscarriage (Correct Answer)

Explanation: **Explanation:** The correct answer is **D. Voluntary miscarriage.** In Forensic Medicine, legal provisions regarding abortion are governed by the **Indian Penal Code (IPC) Sections 312 to 316**. * **IPC Section 312:** Deals with causing miscarriage voluntarily. If the woman is "quick with child" (fetal movements felt), the punishment is more severe. * **IPC Section 315:** Deals with an act done with the intent to prevent a child from being born alive or to cause it to die after birth. These sections establish that any miscarriage performed outside the strict legal exceptions provided by the **Medical Termination of Pregnancy (MTP) Act, 1971**, is considered a criminal offense. **Analysis of Incorrect Options:** * **A. Kidnapping and abduction:** These are covered under **IPC Sections 359 to 363**. * **B. Attempted and abetment to suicide:** Attempted suicide is under **IPC Section 309**, while abetment to suicide is under **IPC Section 306**. * **C. Causing grievous hurt:** This is defined under **IPC Section 320** (which lists 8 specific criteria) and punished under **IPC Section 325**. **High-Yield Clinical Pearls for NEET-PG:** * **IPC 313:** Causing miscarriage without the woman’s consent (Life imprisonment). * **IPC 314:** Death caused by an act done with intent to cause miscarriage. * **MTP Act (1971/2021 Amendment):** Termination is legal up to **24 weeks** for specific categories (e.g., rape survivors, fetal anomalies) with the opinion of two registered medical practitioners. * **Corpus Luteum of Pregnancy:** Its presence during an autopsy is a vital sign indicating recent pregnancy in cases of alleged criminal abortion.

Question 74: All are tests to detect seminal stains except?

A. Florence test
B. Barberio's test
C. Acid phosphatase test
D. Benzidine test (Correct Answer)

Explanation: **Explanation:** The correct answer is **Benzidine test** because it is a presumptive test used to detect **blood**, not semen. It relies on the peroxidase-like activity of hemoglobin, which reacts with benzidine to produce a blue color. Due to the carcinogenic nature of benzidine, it has largely been replaced by the Phenolphthalein (Kastle-Meyer) test in modern forensics. **Analysis of other options:** * **Florence test:** A microchemical test for semen. It uses Florence’s reagent (iodine in potassium iodide) which reacts with **choline** in the seminal fluid to form dark brown, rhombic, or needle-shaped crystals of periodide of choline. * **Barberio’s test:** Another microchemical test. It uses picric acid to react with **spermine** in the semen, resulting in the formation of yellow, needle-shaped crystals of spermine picrate. * **Acid phosphatase test:** This is the most important **screening (presumptive) test** for semen. Seminal fluid contains very high concentrations of the enzyme acid phosphatase (secreted by the prostate). A rapid color change (purple/blue) upon adding alpha-naphthyl phosphate and diazo dye indicates a positive result. **High-Yield Clinical Pearls for NEET-PG:** * **Confirmatory Test:** The only absolute proof of semen is the microscopic identification of **spermatozoa** (using Christmas Tree stain). * **PSA (p30):** Prostate-specific antigen is a highly specific marker used to detect semen even in aspermic or vasectomized males. * **UV Light:** Seminal stains exhibit **bluish-white fluorescence** under Wood’s lamp due to the presence of flavins. * **Sequence of Tests:** Screening (Acid Phosphatase) → Chemical (Florence/Barberio) → Confirmatory (Microscopy/PSA).

Question 75: Exhibitionism is punishable under which section of the Indian Penal Code (IPC)?

A. Section 294 IPC (Correct Answer)
B. Section 293 IPC
C. Section 292 IPC
D. Section 304 IPC

Explanation: **Explanation:** **Exhibitionism** is a psychosexual disorder (paraphilia) characterized by the urge to expose one's genitals to an unsuspecting stranger to achieve sexual gratification. In the legal context of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), this act is categorized as "obscene acts and songs" in public. * **Section 294 IPC (Correct Answer):** This section specifically deals with punishment for **obscene acts and songs** performed in any public place to the annoyance of others. Since exhibitionism involves the public exposure of genitals, it is prosecuted under this section. Punishment may include imprisonment up to 3 months, a fine, or both. **Analysis of Incorrect Options:** * **Section 292 IPC:** Deals with the **sale, exhibition, or distribution of obscene books**, pamphlets, or paintings. It focuses on obscene objects rather than physical acts. * **Section 293 IPC:** Specifically addresses the **sale or distribution of obscene objects to young persons** (under the age of 20 years). * **Section 304 IPC:** Pertains to **culpable homicide not amounting to murder**. It is entirely unrelated to sexual offences or obscenity. **High-Yield Clinical Pearls for NEET-PG:** * **Exhibitionism** is also known as **"Indecent Exposure"** or **"Anasyrma."** * It is most commonly seen in males, and the offender usually does not seek actual sexual contact with the victim. * **Voyeurism** (watching others in private acts) is punishable under **Section 354C IPC**. * **Stalking** is punishable under **Section 354D IPC**. * **Frotteurism** is the urge to rub one's pelvic area against a non-consenting person in a crowded place.

Question 76: The term 'catamite' is related to which of the following?

A. Rape
B. Bigamy
C. Sodomy (Correct Answer)
D. Kleptomania

Explanation: ### Explanation **Correct Answer: C. Sodomy** The term **'Catamite'** refers specifically to a young boy who is used for the purpose of **sodomy** (anal intercourse). In forensic medicine, sodomy is defined as anal penetration of a male or female by a male. The passive agent in this act is referred to as the *catamite* (if a boy) or a *pathic* (if an adult male). The active agent is known as the *pederast*. This terminology is high-yield for identifying roles in cases of unnatural sexual offences under the legal framework of Section 377 IPC (though its application has evolved following the Navtej Singh Johar vs. Union of India judgment). **Why other options are incorrect:** * **A. Rape:** This involves non-consensual vaginal, anal, or oral penetration (Section 375 IPC). While sodomy can be a form of non-consensual sexual assault, the specific term 'catamite' is historically and legally reserved for the passive partner in pederasty/sodomy. * **B. Bigamy:** This is a matrimonial offence (Section 494 IPC) referring to the act of marrying someone while already legally married to another person. It has no relation to sexual deviance or specific roles in intercourse. * **C. Kleptomania:** This is an impulse control disorder characterized by a recurrent inability to resist urges to steal items that are not needed for personal use or monetary value. It is a psychiatric condition, not a sexual offence. **Clinical Pearls for NEET-PG:** * **Active Agent:** Pederast (Sodomite). * **Passive Agent:** Catamite (Boy) or Pathic (Adult). * **Signs of Habitual Passive Agent:** Funnel-shaped anus, loss of sphincter tone (patulous anus), smoothening of anal rugae, and the **'Duck-bill' appearance** of the anus. * **Legal Note:** While consensual homosexual acts are decriminalized, non-consensual sodomy and bestiality remain punishable under Section 377 IPC.

Question 77: What is the punishment for a person seeking prenatal diagnostic facilities for the purpose of sex selection?

A. 1 year imprisonment and fine Rs. 10,000
B. 3-5 years imprisonment and fine Rs. 50,000 - 1 lakh (Correct Answer)
C. 1 year imprisonment and fine Rs. 50,000 - 1 lakh
D. 3 years imprisonment and fine Rs. 10,000

Explanation: This question pertains to the **PCPNDT Act (Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques Act, 1994)**, which was enacted to prevent female feticide by prohibiting sex selection before or after conception. ### **Explanation of the Correct Answer** Under the PCPNDT Act, the punishment for the **person seeking** (parents or relatives) or **abetting** sex selection is stringent to act as a deterrent. * **First Conviction:** Imprisonment up to **3 years** and a fine up to **Rs. 50,000**. * **Subsequent Conviction:** Imprisonment up to **5 years** and a fine up to **Rs. 1 lakh**. Thus, the range of **3-5 years and Rs. 50,000 - 1 lakh** (Option B) accurately reflects the statutory penalties for the service seeker. ### **Analysis of Incorrect Options** * **Option A & D:** These underestimate the severity of the law. A fine of Rs. 10,000 was associated with older provisions or minor clerical errors (like non-maintenance of records), not the act of sex selection itself. * **Option C:** While the fine amount is correct for a first/subsequent offense, 1-year imprisonment is insufficient under the current legal framework for the gravity of sex determination. ### **High-Yield Clinical Pearls for NEET-PG** * **Doctor’s Punishment:** If a doctor/geneticist performs sex selection, they face the same prison/fine terms as above. Additionally, their name is reported to the State Medical Council for **suspension of registration** (5 years for the first offense; permanent removal for the second). * **Compulsory Registration:** All genetic clinics/ultrasound centers must be registered. Using a portable ultrasound machine outside registered premises is illegal. * **Form F:** This is the mandatory form to be filled for every pregnant woman undergoing an ultrasound; any deficiency in filling Form F is considered "prima facie" evidence of an offense. * **Cognizability:** All offenses under this Act are **cognizable, non-bailable, and non-compoundable.**

Question 78: Incised wounds on genitalia are typically indicative of which of the following?

A. Homicidal injury (Correct Answer)
B. Suicidal injury
C. Accidental injury
D. Self-inflicted injury

Explanation: **Explanation:** In forensic practice, incised wounds on the genitalia are almost always considered **homicidal** in nature. This specific type of injury is frequently associated with crimes of passion, sexual jealousy, or "revenge" attacks. 1. **Why Homicidal is Correct:** Genital mutilation (penis or scrotum in males; labia or clitoris in females) is a classic sign of a **homicidal assault** motivated by intense emotional provocation or sexual deviance. In many cases, these are "post-mortem" or "peri-mortem" injuries intended to dehumanize or punish the victim. 2. **Why other options are incorrect:** * **Suicidal injury:** While suicide by cutting the throat or wrists is common, suicidal mutilation of the genitalia is extremely rare and usually only seen in individuals with severe acute psychosis or gender dysphoria. * **Accidental injury:** The anatomical location of the genitalia (protected by the thighs and clothing) makes isolated incised wounds via accident highly improbable. Accidental injuries here are more likely to be blunt force (straddle injuries). * **Self-inflicted injury:** These are typically superficial, multiple, and parallel (hesitation marks) on accessible areas like the forearm or chest. Self-mutilation of genitalia is rare and distinct from the deep, aggressive cuts seen in homicidal cases. **High-Yield Clinical Pearls for NEET-PG:** * **Kroumen’s Sign:** A forensic term sometimes used to describe the amputation of the penis in homicidal cases. * **Defense Wounds:** Always look for cuts on the palms or forearms, which support a homicidal struggle. * **Accidental Genital Trauma:** In children, "straddle injuries" (falling on a bicycle bar) are the most common cause of accidental vulvar/scrotal hematomas, not incised wounds. * **Rule of Thumb:** Any sharp force injury to a "private" or "hidden" body part should immediately raise suspicion of homicide or sexual assault.

Question 79: Which of the following features, if present in a woman, is suggestive of a long-standing sexually active life?

A. Torn fourchette
B. Torn hymen
C. Disappearance of vaginal rugae (Correct Answer)
D. Exposed labia minora

Explanation: ### Explanation The correct answer is **C. Disappearance of vaginal rugae.** **1. Why it is correct:** Vaginal rugae are transverse ridges of the vaginal mucosa that allow for distension during intercourse and childbirth. In a woman who has a long-standing, frequent sexually active life or has undergone multiple vaginal deliveries, the repeated mechanical stretching leads to the permanent smoothing and thinning of the vaginal walls. This results in the gradual **disappearance or flattening of the rugae**, making the vaginal canal smooth. This is a chronic, cumulative change rather than an acute finding. **2. Why the other options are incorrect:** * **Torn fourchette (A):** The fourchette is typically torn during the first act of intercourse or during childbirth (perineal tears). It is a sign of acute trauma or recent penetration, not necessarily a long-standing sexually active life. * **Torn hymen (B):** A torn hymen (yielding *carunculae myrtiformes* after healing) indicates that penetration has occurred at least once. However, it can occur during the very first sexual encounter or even due to non-sexual trauma/exercise; thus, it does not specifically indicate a "long-standing" history. * **Exposed labia minora (D):** In a nulliparous woman, the labia majora are usually in apposition, covering the labia minora. While frequent intercourse or childbirth may cause the labia majora to become less firm, exposing the minora, this is a less reliable and less specific forensic indicator compared to the loss of rugosity. **3. NEET-PG High-Yield Pearls:** * **Habitual Intercourse:** Signs include a patulous vaginal orifice, loss of rugosity, and a thickened, insensitive hymenal margin. * **Carunculae Myrtiformes:** These are small, rounded elevations of mucous membrane left after the hymen has been ruptured and healed following childbirth. * **Locard’s Principle:** In sexual assault cases, the presence of spermatozoa or acid phosphatase is the most definitive evidence of recent intercourse, but the loss of rugae is the classic forensic sign of chronic activity.

Question 80: In rape cases, an in camera trial is conducted under which section of the Criminal Procedure Code?

A. Section 164A CrPC
B. Section 327 CrPC (Correct Answer)
C. Section 357C CrPC
D. Section 54A CrPC

Explanation: **Explanation:** In the context of sexual offences, the privacy and dignity of the victim are paramount. **Section 327 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC)** mandates that the inquiry into and trial of rape (under sections 376, 376A-D of the IPC) shall be conducted **"in camera."** This means the proceedings are held in a private room or a closed courtroom where the public and media are excluded, ensuring the victim can testify without additional trauma or social stigma. **Analysis of Options:** * **Section 164A CrPC:** This section deals specifically with the **medical examination of a rape victim**. It mandates that the victim be examined by a registered medical practitioner within 24 hours of the report, with her informed consent. * **Section 357C CrPC:** This section mandates that all hospitals (Public or Private) must provide **immediate first-aid or free medical treatment** to victims of acid attacks and sexual offences, and immediately inform the police. * **Section 54A CrPC:** This pertains to the **identification of an arrested person** (Test Identification Parade) where the court may direct the person to be identified by others. **High-Yield Facts for NEET-PG:** * **Section 164 CrPC:** Recording of confessions and statements by a Magistrate (often confused with 164A). * **Section 53A CrPC:** Mandatory medical examination of the **accused** in a rape case. * **Section 197 CrPC:** Protection of public servants from prosecution. * **Two-Finger Test:** Strictly prohibited by the Supreme Court; its performance is considered misconduct. * **Consent:** Under the POCSO Act and recent amendments, the age of consent is **18 years**.

Practice by Chapter

Sexual Assault Examination

Practice Questions

Rape Investigation

Practice Questions

Child Sexual Abuse

Practice Questions

Collection of Biological Evidence

Practice Questions

DNA Testing in Sexual Offences

Practice Questions

False Allegations

Practice Questions

Medical Termination of Pregnancy

Practice Questions

Criminal Abortion

Practice Questions

Complications of Abortion

Practice Questions

Sexual Perversions

Practice Questions

Legal Aspects of Sexual Offences

Practice Questions

Victim Support and Rehabilitation

Practice Questions

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