Understanding Legal Frameworks: Women's Rights in India

Introduction: Women are the real architects of society and women's rights and legal protections are crucial components of any civilised society. In India, a complex array of laws addresses various aspects of women's lives, encompassing constitutional, employment, criminal and family laws. This session aims to provide a comprehensive overview of these legal frameworks, empowering participants with the knowledge necessary to advocate for gender equality and women's rights.

Objective: The primary objective of this session is to deepen participants' understanding of laws pertaining to women in India, spanning constitutional provisions, employment regulations, criminal justice and family matters.

Session Objectives:

·      To familiarize participants with key constitutional provisions safeguarding women's rights in India.

·      To explore employment laws and policies aimed at promoting gender equality and ensuring a safe work environment for women.

·      To discuss the criminal laws aimed at protecting women from violence, harassment and discrimination.

·      To analyze family laws concerning women's rights in matters of marriage, divorce, inheritance, and guardianship.

By examining these legal frameworks, participants will gain insights into the challenges faced by women and potential avenues for legal advocacy and reform.

Session Structure:

1. Constitutional Laws:

• Overview of constitutional provisions guaranteeing equality and non-discrimination.

• Examination of landmark judgments expanding women's rights under the Indian Constitution.

• Discussion on affirmative action measures and their impact on women's empowerment.

2.  Employment Laws:

• Overview of laws governing women's rights in the workplace, including Equal Remuneration Act, 1976, Maternity Benefits Act, 1961, Factories Act,1948 / State Shops & Establishments Acts and Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition, and Redressal) Act, 2013 (POSH).

• Examination of legal mechanisms for addressing workplace discrimination, harassment and promoting gender diversity.

• Discussions on the implementation and challenges of existing employment laws.

3.    Criminal Laws & Cyber Crime:

• Analysis of laws addressing crimes against women, including sexual assault, domestic violence, cyber-crime and harassment.

• Examination of procedural aspects, including reporting mechanisms, investigation, and trial procedures.

• Review of recent legislative amendments and their impact on enhancing women's safety and access to justice.

4. Family Laws:

• Discussion on key provisions of personal laws governing marriage, divorce, inheritance, and guardianship.

• Exploration of recent legislative reforms aimed at promoting gender justice within familial relations.

• Analysis of landmark judicial decisions reshaping the landscape of family law in India.

5. Interactive Session:

• Q&A session allowing participants to seek clarification on specific legal provisions and cases.

Conclusion: This session seeks to equip participants with a nuanced understanding of the legal frameworks pertaining to women in India, from constitutional guarantees to family matters. By engaging with these laws, participants will be better equipped to navigate legal challenges, advocate for women's rights, and contribute to the ongoing struggle for gender equality in India.