Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The question asks for the section of the Indian Penal Code, 1860 (IPC) that punishes the act of outraging the modesty of a woman.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Let's analyze the given sections:
- Sections 376(a) and 376(b) are part of the broader Section 376 which prescribes punishments for the offence of rape. These specific sub-sections deal with aggravated forms of rape.
- Section 354 is titled "Assault or criminal force to woman with intent to outrage her modesty." This section directly criminalizes any act of assault or use of criminal force on a woman with the intention of outraging her modesty. This is the precise offense mentioned in the question.
- Section 498 deals with the offence of "Enticing or taking away or detaining with criminal intent a married woman."
Therefore, the correct section for punishing the act of outraging a woman's modesty is Section 354.
Step 3: Final Answer:
Outraging the modesty of a woman is punishable under Section 354 of the IPC.