Women's Rights

Your Rights

• ✓Right to file an FIR for cruelty by husband or in-laws under Section 498A IPC; the offence is cognizable and non-bailable.
• ✓Right to seek protection orders, residence orders, and monetary relief under the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act 2005.
• ✓Right to a safe and harassment-free workplace under the POSH Act 2013, with mandatory Internal Committees in establishments of ten or more employees.
• ✓Right to file complaints of sexual harassment within three months of the incident, with confidentiality of identity preserved throughout.
• ✓Right to maintenance from husband under Section 125 CrPC and personal laws, irrespective of religion.
• ✓Right to share in matrimonial home and to not be dispossessed without due process.
• ✓Right to free legal aid as an entitled category under the Legal Services Authorities Act 1987.
• ✓Right against gender-based discrimination in employment, equal remuneration, and maternity benefits under the Maternity Benefit Act.

Relevant Statutes

What to Do

1. 1If facing harassment or violence, document everything: dates, words used, witnesses, injuries with photos and medical records.
2. 2Approach the nearest All Women Police Station or call 112/1091 (Women Helpline).
3. 3File a complaint under DV Act 2005 before the Magistrate or through a Protection Officer for swift relief.
4. 4At workplace, lodge written complaint with the Internal Committee within three months of the incident.
5. 5Engage with NALSA-empanelled lawyers for free legal services if eligible.
6. 6Reach out to women-focused NGOs such as Sakhi One Stop Centres for shelter, counselling, and legal support.