In a country with such diverse traditions and complex social dynamics, women have long been at the forefront of efforts for equality and justice. To support their progress, India’s legal system provides several rights and protection mechanisms. As society evolves, every woman must understand the laws designed to safeguard her rights in areas like employment, domestic life, and personal safety.Knowledge of these laws empowers women to protect themselves and secure their welfare and life.
Here Dr. Rennie Joyy, Advocate, shares five laws that every Indian woman should know about to ensure her rights are always protected:
1. Right to equal pay
In India, the right to equal pay is a fundamental protection under the Equal Remuneration Act of 1976 (ERA). This law ensures that men and women performing the same work or work of a similar nature are compensated equally. It also prohibits discrimination in recruitment and promotions, guaranteeing that gender does not play a role in employment decisions. Equal pay is essential in empowering women and ensuring economic independence, especially in male-dominated industries.
2. Right against workplace harassment
The Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition, and Redressal) Act, also known as the PoSH Act, provides a robust framework to protect women from harassment in their places of employment. This law requires businesses to establish procedures for dealing with sexual harassment complaints and mandates the formation of Internal Complaints Committees (ICC). Women have the legal right to report inappropriate behaviour, ensuring they can work safely and respectfully.
3. Right to maternity leave
The Maternity Benefit Act of 1961 supports working women during one of the most critical phases of their lives, pregnancy. Under this law, women are entitled to receive paid maternity leave for up to 26 weeks. The law aims to promote both the mother’s and child’s health and help women manage their professional and personal responsibilities. This act is crucial in ensuring that women do not have to choose between their careers and family.
4. Right against domestic violence
One of the most significant protections for women in India is the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act (2005). This law shields women from physical, emotional, verbal, sexual, and economic abuse within their households. It empowers women to seek legal remedies and protection orders against abusive family members. The act also provides for non-bailable imprisonment for offenders, ensuring strict legal action against those who violate a woman’s safety within her home.
5. Right to free legal aid
In times of crisis, such as instances of sexual assault or domestic violence, women often face financial and emotional challenges. To support them, the Legal Services Authorities Act entitles female rape victims to free legal assistance. This ensures that they receive adequate legal representation, regardless of their financial situation. This right guarantees that women are not deprived of justice simply because of their economic conditions, providing them a fair chance to fight their cases in court.
Moreover, in a nation as diverse as India, women must be aware of the laws designed to protect their rights and welfare. By knowing and asserting these rights, women can continue contributing to society, securing their well-being, and fighting for a more just and equitable future.