Women are no less than men. Women have shown their strength in every field. With time, society has also changed its thinking towards women and has appreciated their talent. Be it traveling in space or conquering Everest, women have hoisted the flag of their skills everywhere. But despite all this, many women are still fighting for their existence.
Some rights which are very important for women to know
The world has become a place where a woman feels fear at every corner. Empowering women through awareness of their legal rights is important to promote gender equality and justice. In such a situation, various laws have been made to protect the rights of women and ensure their well-being in various aspects of life. Here are 8 legal rights that every Indian woman should be aware of to be confident and feel safe.
right to equal opportunity
According to the Equal Remuneration Act, women have the right to equal pay for equal work. Discrimination on the basis of gender in matters of salary or wages is prohibited. It empowers working women to demand and receive fair compensation as compared to their male counterparts.
Dignity and decency in legal processes
In situations involving a female accused, any medical examination should be conducted by or in the presence of another woman, to ensure that her right to dignity and decency is upheld. This provision protects the privacy of women and ensures respectful treatment in legal processes.
Right against harassment at workplace
The Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace Act gives women the right to lodge a complaint against any kind of sexual harassment at their workplace. The Act establishes internal grievance committees to resolve complaints, providing a legal framework for a safe working environment.
rights against domestic violence
Section 498 of the Indian Constitution protects women from domestic violence, including verbal, economic, emotional and sexual abuse. Perpetrators may face non-bailable imprisonment, which will provide legal recourse to women facing violence in their homes.
right to maternity benefits
Maternity benefit is not just a convenience for working women, but it is their right. Under the Maternity Benefit Act, there is no cut in the salary of a new mother for 6 months after delivery and she can start working again. This law applies to every government and non-government company. It states that a female employee who has worked in a company for at least 80 days during the 12 months preceding pregnancy is entitled to receive maternity benefits. Which includes maternity leave, nursing break, medical allowance etc.
right against dowry
If the boy’s family or the boy himself demands dowry at the time of marriage or after that, then there is no need for the girl’s family to give dowry under compulsion. A woman has the right to complain about this. Under Section 304B and 498A of the IPC, dowry exchange and harassment related to it have been declared illegal and criminal.
Right to lodge virtual complaints
Women can file virtual complaints through written complaint sent to the police station through email or registered postal address. It facilitates reporting for those who are physically unable to go to the police station.
right against stalking
Section 354D of the IPC enables legal action to be taken against persons who stalk women through repeated personal interactions or electronic surveillance. This provision addresses the crime of stalking and ensures the safety of women.
