Thiruvananthapuram : Like the large shade trees, there is a wide expanse of laws that provide protection and care for women. However despite this, the majority of them continue to bear the brunt of agony and exploitation. There are quite some women who live with their head held high in front of their attackers. But many of them have this inherent hesitation to pursue the provisions under of law. Though laws exist, several women fear harm totheir repute and keep away from pursuing help. At other times, rare cases of justice deprived also acts as deterrent.
Dowry Prohibition Act
Accepting, paying or encouraging dowry could attract a 5-year jail sentence. And, dowry not lesser than Rs 15,000 could earn an equivalent sum in fine. Anyone who demands dowry can be imprisoned from 6 months till up to 5 years and a fine of Rs 10,000. Any advertisement that encourages dowry could fetch 6 months to 5 years in prison plus a fine of Rs 15,000.
Domestic Violence Act
Physical, sexual, financial, verbal or emotional abuse falls under the purview of Domestic Violence Act. The woman complainant in such cases will receive free medical and legal aid and also free accommodation. More importantly, a settlement will be arrived up on within 60 days of lodging the complaint and the woman in question will have full rights to her home all along. There is monetary compensation receivable for mental torture one may have suffered. Woman are also eligible to seek custody of her children. If a man breaches protective injunction issued by court, he would be jailed for an year and made to pay a fine Rs 20,000. Physical or mental torture falls under IPC 498(A) and attracts 3 year imprisonment and fine.
10 Year Rigorous Imprisonment For Rape
Rape would mean a minimum of 10 years of rigorous imprisonment plus fine. For unnatural death within 7 years of marriage, the husband faces a minimum of 7 years that could extend to life in prison. For attempt aimed to sexually assault a woman, the culprit could earn 1 to 5 years in prison.
3 Years Rigorous Imprisonment For Derogatory Remarks
Remarks that outrage modesty of women, lewd comments, inappropriate touch or inviting sexual favours will attract up to 3 years of rigorous imprisonment.
