The killing of a new born child is known as Infanticide.
Definition:
Infanticide refers to the intentional act of causing the death of an infant, typically a child under one year of age. It is considered a criminal offense in most countries, including India, and is often treated as a form of homicide.
Legal Perspective:
In Indian law, infanticide is addressed under the broader provisions of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) related to homicide. There is no separate section titled "infanticide," but such acts are prosecuted under:
- Section 302 IPC – Punishment for murder
- Section 315 IPC – Act done with intent to prevent child from being born alive or to cause it to die after birth
- Section 316 IPC – Causing death of a quick unborn child by act amounting to culpable homicide
Social Context:
Infanticide, especially female infanticide, has historically been linked to deep-rooted social and economic issues such as gender discrimination, poverty, and dowry practices. Despite legal prohibitions, such practices have persisted in some parts of the world, prompting legal and social reform efforts.
Conclusion:
The killing of a new born child is termed as Infanticide, and it is a serious criminal offense under the law.