7 Legal Rights That Every Woman Should Know

The West Bengal government recently passed the "Aparajita" Bill, aimed at strengthening laws against rape and sexual offenses committed against women. This development raises an important question: Are there enough legal protections in place for women against harassment in general?

While many women are aware of some of their legal rights, there are numerous laws at both the national and state levels designed to safeguard women that remain less well-known. It's crucial for every woman and girl to be aware of these rights. Let’s explore seven essential legal rights that every woman in India should know.

7 Essential Legal Rights for Women

Check the 7 legal rights that are already in action for the safety and protection of women in general, irrespective of them being a working professional, or a home maker. 

1. Right to Equal Pay

Women are entitled to equal compensation for equal work, as stated in the Equal Remuneration Act. It is legally forbidden to discriminate on the basis of gender in terms of wages, compensation, or salary. 

This gives working women the power to demand and get pay that is equitable to that of their male colleagues.

2. Right to Protection at Workplace

Women have the right to report instances of sexual harassment at work under the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace Act. If a female employee faces harassment, she can file a complaint with the office's Internal Complaints Committee.

According to the POSH Act, any company with ten or more workers is required to set up an internal complaints committee in order to receive and handle complaints regarding sexual harassment at work.

3. Right to Protection Against Domestic Violence

The Indian Constitution's Section 498 shields women against verbal, financial, emotional, and sexual abuse, among other forms of domestic violence. Criminals may be sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of bond

The law also provides legal protection for women who are victims of domestic abuse.

4. Right to Anonymity in Sexual Assault Cases

Women who are victims of any form of sexual assault have the right to record their statements before the district magistrate alone or in the presence of a female police officer in order to protect their right to privacy. 

This guarantees confidentiality throughout legal processes, thus maintaining the privacy of the victim.

5. Right to Dignity and Decency

Any medical examination of a female accused person must be performed by another woman or in her presence to protect her right to dignity and decency. It is illegal to do any kind of examination, ohysical or mental in the presence of only male officials.

This clause guarantees women's privacy protection and courteous treatment throughout legal proceedings.

6. Right to Free Legal Aid

The Legal Services Authorities Act provides free legal aid to victims of female rape. This clause guarantees women access to legal aid and representation when they face difficulties.

7. Right To Not Be Arrested at Night

Under severe circumstances and only with the order of a first-class magistrate can a police officer arrest a women after sundown and before sunrise. Normally, police are not permitted to arrest women during nighttime. 

The law also requires the presence of a female constable and other family members or friends during police questioning or interrogation of a female prisoner.

Every woman in India should be aware of the rights granted to them by the government. There are many laws in India specifically designed to protect women, ensuring their safety and well-being.