7 women safety laws that every woman in the country should be aware of

Credits: India today

According to a 2022 National Crime Record Bureau (NCRB), around four lakh plus cases of crime against women had been registered. Leading to a rise in crime against women which has called for the implementation of specific laws protecting women. Here are seven Indian laws for the protection of women:

1. Criminal Act, 2018 

The Criminal Act, 2018 also known as the Nirbhaya Act is the most well- known law,  for its strong punishments against sexual offences. Under the law, the punishment for repeated rape offender is death penalty. There are also strict penalties imposed on crimes such as stalking, rape and harassment. 

2. The Protection of Women from Sexual Offence act (POCSO), 2012

Credits: Probono India

The Protection of Women from Sexual Offence act (POCSO), 2012 act deals with sexual offences against children. This act not only protects the children from sexual violence, it also offers support to the victims. 

3. The Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005

Credits: reflection.live

The Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005 provides civil remedies to women who are abused in home. Under this law, Protection officers have been appointed to help women, filing complaints against their husbands for abuse. 

4. The Indecent Representation of Women (Prohibition) Act of 1986

Credits: Feminism in India

The Indecent Representation of Women (Prohibition) Act of 1986, prohibits the indecent representation of women in various forms, including advertisements, publications, writings, paintings, figures or in any other manner and for matters connected therewith or incidental thereto.

5. The Immoral Traffic (Prevention) Act (ITP) of 1956

The Immoral Traffic (Prevention) Act of 1956  act  passed with the aim of preventing women trafficking and prohibiting the running of brothels and soliciting. 

6. The Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013

Credits: Vajiram & Ravi

The Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace Act, 2013 wad framed on the basis of Vishakha Guidelines of the Supreme Court, this act aims to create a safe working environment for women by helping prevent sexual harassment at workplace and provide redressal for women. 

7. The Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2006

Credits: The Hindu

The Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2006 was passed aiming to prevent child marriages and protecting young girls, by setting the legal age of marriage at 18 for women and 21 for men.