India has made significant progress in empowering women by enacting various laws and policies that safeguard their rights. However, many women remain unaware of these legal protections. In 2025, knowing your rights is crucial for personal safety, workplace equality, and financial independence. This blog outlines the essential laws every woman in India should be aware of to protect and empower themselves in different aspects of life.
1. Protection from Domestic Violence: The Domestic Violence Act, 2005
The Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act (PWDVA), 2005 ensures that women facing physical, emotional, verbal, economic, or sexual abuse can seek protection. The law provides the right to:
- File a complaint against the abuser
- Seek protection orders and monetary relief
- Claim residence rights and custody of children
- Approach the courts for justice
Women can report domestic violence by calling 181 (Women’s Helpline) or filing a complaint at the nearest police station.
2. Sexual Harassment at Workplace: POSH Act, 2013
The Prevention of Sexual Harassment at Workplace (POSH) Act, 2013 mandates strict action against workplace harassment. Under this law:
- Every workplace must have an Internal Complaints Committee (ICC)
- Women can report any form of unwelcome sexual advances, inappropriate behavior, or gender-based discrimination
- Employers must conduct awareness programs and ensure a safe work environment
- Complaints must be addressed within 90 days
Women can directly file complaints with their company’s ICC or reach out to the National Commission for Women (NCW) for support.
3. Maternity Benefits: The Maternity Benefit Act, 1961 (Amended in 2017)
The Maternity Benefit Act protects pregnant women and ensures financial security during maternity leave. Key provisions include:
- 26 weeks of paid maternity leave for the first two children
- 12 weeks of paid leave for the third child
- Work-from-home option for new mothers (if applicable)
- Mandatory crèche facility in companies with more than 50 employees
This law ensures working mothers can balance professional and personal responsibilities.
4. Equal Pay and Employment Rights: The Equal Remuneration Act, 1976
The Equal Remuneration Act ensures women receive equal pay for equal work. Key rights include:
- No discrimination in wages between men and women for the same work
- Equal employment opportunities across all sectors
- Protection against gender-based hiring discrimination
Women can file complaints with the Labour Commission if they face wage discrimination.
5. Right to Property: Hindu Succession Act, 1956 (Amended in 2005)
The Hindu Succession (Amendment) Act, 2005 gives daughters equal inheritance rights as sons. This means:
- Daughters have equal rights to parental property
- Married daughters also have inheritance rights
- Women can claim their rightful share in ancestral property
For Muslim and Christian women, separate inheritance laws apply, but recent legal trends aim for uniform gender equality in inheritance rights.
6. Protection from Rape and Sexual Assault: IPC Sections 375 & 376
Under the Indian Penal Code (IPC) Sections 375 & 376, rape is a severe crime with strict punishment. Key points include:
- A minimum 7 years to life imprisonment for offenders
- Fast-track courts for handling rape cases
- Special provisions for marital rape are under legal review
- The Nirbhaya Fund supports victims with medical and legal aid
Women can report sexual assault by dialing 1091 (Women’s Helpline) or visiting the nearest police station.
7. Protection from Cybercrime: IT Act, 2000 & IPC Sections 354D & 66E
Online harassment, cyberstalking, and privacy violations are increasing. The IT Act, 2000 and IPC Section 354D & 66E protect women from digital crimes such as:
- Cyberstalking and online harassment
- Non-consensual sharing of private images (revenge porn)
- Identity theft and financial fraud
Women can report cybercrimes through the Cyber Crime Portal (www.cybercrime.gov.in) or call 155260 (Cybercrime Helpline).
8. Right to Abortion: The Medical Termination of Pregnancy (MTP) Act, 1971 (Amended in 2021)
The MTP Act allows women to make decisions about their reproductive health. The amendment in 2021 permits:
- Abortion up to 24 weeks for special categories (survivors of rape, incest, minors, differently-abled women)
- Confidentiality of the patient’s identity
- Legal abortion at government and private hospitals
Women can approach registered healthcare providers for safe and legal abortion services.
9. Dowry Protection: The Dowry Prohibition Act, 1961
This law criminalizes the practice of dowry. Under this act:
- Giving or receiving dowry is punishable with a minimum of 5 years imprisonment
- Women can report dowry harassment to the police under IPC Section 498A
- Helplines and women’s welfare organizations provide legal assistance
Victims can reach out to 181 (Women’s Helpline) for help.
10. Child Marriage Prevention: The Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2006
This law declares marriage below 18 years for women and 21 years for men illegal. Key aspects include:
- Punishment for those arranging or forcing child marriage
- Marriage can be annulled if a minor is forced into it
- Protection homes for child brides in distress
Women can report child marriage by calling 1098 (Childline Helpline).
Conclusion
Women’s rights in India are legally protected, but awareness is the key to empowerment. Knowing these laws helps women safeguard themselves from discrimination, violence, and injustice. If you or someone you know faces any legal issues, seek support from legal aid services, helplines, or women’s welfare organizations. Together, we can create a safer and more equal society for women in India.
Stay informed. Stay empowered. Know your rights.