Section 374 of the Indian Penal Code, 1860 – Unlawful Compulsory Labour:
Whoever unlawfully compels any person to labour against the will of that person, shall be punished with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to one year, or with fine, or with both.
Image Source: crazycritics123.files.wordpress.com
ADVERTISEMENTS:
Ingredients of Offence:
The essential ingredients of the offence under Section 374 are as follows:
(1) Accused obtained labour from such person;
ADVERTISEMENTS:
(2) It was obtained under compulsion or against the will of such person;
(3) Such compulsion was unlawful.
This section is based on the recognition of individual freedom as the inherent right of man. No one, not even the State, can compel him to render his service against his wish, and anyone compelling him to do so makes himself liable under this section.