Women are entitled to equality, dignity, safety, liberty and protection of law.
India has a comprehensive legal framework consisting of constitutional protections and several specific laws addressing different forms of violence, harassment, discrimination and exploitation.
Is There One Women’s Rights Act?
No. Women's rights are protected through the Constitution and multiple specific laws, each dealing with particular forms of rights violations.
Protection from Domestic Violence
The Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005 provides more effective protection to women who are victims of violence occurring within the family.
The Act was enacted on 13 September 2005 and came into force on 26 October 2006. It provides a legal framework for reliefs including protection orders, residence orders, monetary relief and other remedies as provided by law.
Protection from Workplace Sexual Harassment
The Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013 provides a statutory framework for prevention and redressal of complaints of sexual harassment of women at the workplace.
The Act came into force on 9 December 2013.
Areas of Protection
Women's legal protections may concern:
- Domestic violence
- Physical and emotional abuse
- Sexual harassment
- Workplace sexual harassment
- Stalking and harassment
- Dowry-related violence
- Trafficking and exploitation
- Gender discrimination
- Other offences against women
What Is the Benefit?
These laws provide women with specific legal protections, complaint mechanisms and remedies depending on the nature of the incident.
How Can You Use These Protections?
Depending on the circumstances, a woman may approach:
- Police
- Protection Officer
- Magistrate
- Workplace Internal Committee
- Local Committee
- Appropriate statutory authority
- Court or other competent forum
A person should preserve relevant evidence such as messages, emails, documents, photographs, medical records or other material wherever safe and lawful.
CRPC Assistance
CRPC may provide rights awareness, general procedural guidance and assistance in identifying the appropriate complaint or support mechanism.
