Central

Section 6 of The Indecent Representation of Women (Prohibition) Act, 1986

Any person who contravenes the provisions of section 3 or section 4 shall be punishable on first conviction with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to two years, and with fine which may extend two thousand rupees, and in the event of a second or subsequent conviction with imprisonment for a term of not less than six months but which may extend to five years and also with a fine not less than ten thousand rupees but which may extend to one lakh rupees.

Summary

For a first conviction, the punishment is imprisonment of either description for a term up to two years, and a fine up to two thousand rupees.
Imprisonment of either description means the jail term can be simple or rigorous under Indian law.
For a second or subsequent conviction, the punishment is imprisonment for a term not less than six months but which may extend to five years.
A repeat conviction also carries a mandatory fine of not less than ten thousand rupees but which may extend to one lakh rupees.

Practical examples

1On May 12, 2026, a printer named Suresh was convicted for the first time of distributing indecent flyers. The judge sentenced him to one year of simple imprisonment and a fine of one thousand rupees, which fits under the first conviction limit of Section 6.

2On June 18, 2027, a store owner named Ramesh was convicted for the second time of selling indecent magazines. The court sentenced him to two years of rigorous imprisonment and a fine of twenty thousand rupees, satisfying the minimum six-month jail term and ten thousand rupee fine.

FAQ

1. What is the maximum prison sentence for a first-time offender under Section 6?

The prison term for a first conviction can extend up to two years.

2. What is the maximum fine for a first-time conviction under Section 6?

The fine on a first conviction can be up to two thousand rupees.

3. Is there a minimum prison term for a second conviction?

Yes, the prison term for a second or subsequent conviction cannot be less than six months.

4. What is the highest fine that can be charged for a repeat conviction?

The fine for a second or subsequent conviction can extend up to one lakh rupees.

5. What is the minimum fine for a repeat conviction?

The minimum fine for a second or subsequent conviction is ten thousand rupees.

Test yourself

Q1.Under Section 6, what is the maximum prison term for a first conviction?

Q2.What is the maximum fine for a first conviction under Section 6?

Q3.What is the minimum prison term required for a second or subsequent conviction?

Q4.What is the maximum fine for a second or subsequent conviction under Section 6?

Q5.What is the minimum fine required for a second or subsequent conviction under Section 6?

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