In India, a number of laws and rules that support gender equality and prohibit discrimination safeguard women’s rights. Important Indian laws that protect women’s rights include the Maternity Benefit Act, which provides benefits during childbirth, the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, which protects against abuse, the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace Act, which ensures a safe workplace, and the Constitution’s fundamental rights, which guarantee equality and nondiscrimination.
These are intended to preserve women’s rights to equality, dignity, and protection from exploitation and violence, as well as the new Bhartya Nagri Suraka Sanhita that provides maintenance to family members. Every Indian woman should be aware of the information in this article regarding Women’s Rights in India.
Women’s Rights in India
India’s legal system has been shaped over the ages by its rich past. The judicial system has changed over time to take into account the nation’s shifting social and cultural landscape. Women have always suffered severe legal disadvantages, notwithstanding notable advancements. Inequality and injustice have been sustained by destructive and discriminatory legislation.
As a result, there is now a growing movement calling for legal reform. It works to guarantee equality and justice for women throughout India. Even though there have been great advancements, much more work has to be done. This blog offers a thorough summary of Women’s Rights in India and the laws that safeguard them.
Constitutional & General Rights Of Women In India
| Article 14 | All citizens, including women, are guaranteed equality before the law and equal protection under it. |
| Article 15 | Permits the state to provide preferential treatment for women and children and forbids discrimination based on sex, religion, race, or caste. |
| Article 16 | Equality of opportunity in public employment is guaranteed. |
| Article 39 | Guarantees men and women the right to a sufficient standard of living and equal compensation for equal labour |
| Article 42 | Demands that the government provide maternity leave and fair and decent working conditions. |
| Article 21 | The right to life and personal liberty, which includes the freedom from discrimination, fear, and coercion. |
What Are the Laws Protecting Women’s Rights
In India, these laws are essential for defending the rights of women.
- Dowry Prohibition Act, 1961: Prohibits giving or taking dowry in connection with marriage to prevent dowry-related abuse.
- Immoral Traffic (Prevention) Act, 1956: Eliminates and prevents the unethical trafficking of women and girls.
- Commission of Sati (Prevention) Act, 1987: Bans the practice of Sati, a highly exploitative and violent tradition.
- Indecent Representation of Women (Prohibition) Act, 1986: Prohibits the derogatory portrayal of women in publications and advertising.
- Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005: Shields women from domestic violence, including sexual, emotional, and physical abuse.
- Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013 (PoSH Act): Ensures a safe work environment by establishing a framework for reporting and addressing sexual harassment.
- Maternity Benefit Act, 1961: Gives pregnant and postpartum mothers advantages and paid leave.
- Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023: Includes provisions for the maintenance of neglected wives, children, and parents.
Reporting & Redressal
- Internal Accusations Committees (ICCs): Under the PoSH Act, companies with ten or more workers must have ICCs in place to handle accusations of harassment.
- District Committees: A woman can speak with the appropriate district committee if her organisation does not have an ICC.
- She-Box: A government web-based platform for reporting workplace sexual harassment.
What is the Importance of Awareness?
Women’s rights are protected in India by a number of laws and regulations that promote gender equality and forbid discrimination. The importance of awareness guides the innocent women to take the necessary steps to protect their rights:
- Empowerment: Awareness of women’s rights empowers them to claim their rights and seek justice.
- Prevention of Abuse: Awareness of laws and provisions can help prevent abuse and exploitation of women.
- Promoting Equality: Awareness of women’s rights promotes gender equality and challenges patriarchal norms and stereotypes.
FAQs
How can women report sexual harassment at the workplace?
Women can report sexual harassment through Internal Complaints Committees (ICCs) or the online platform SHe-Box.
What is SHe-Box?
SHe-Box is a government online system for reporting sexual harassment at the workplace.
What is the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005?
Women are shielded from financial, mental, and physical abuse in the home by this rule.
What is the Dowry Prohibition Act, 1961?
This rule forbids dowries to be given or received in conjunction with marriage.
