Explain various laws related to sexual coercion and violence in India.

In India, sexual coercion and violence are addressed through various laws and legal provisions aimed at protecting individuals from sexual assault, harassment, and exploitation. These laws encompass both criminal and civil statutes and are intended to prevent, punish, and provide redress for acts of sexual violence. Here are the key laws related to sexual coercion and violence in India:

1. The Indian Penal Code (IPC), 1860:

   • Section 375: Defines rape as the penetration of the vagina, mouth, urethra, or anus of a woman without her consent or under certain specified circumstances, including coercion, threat, deception, or when the woman is unable to give consent due to intoxication, unsoundness of mind, or minority.
   • Section 376: Prescribes punishment for rape, including imprisonment ranging from seven years to life, and may extend to the death penalty in cases of aggravated rape.
   • Section 354: Addresses assault or criminal force with intent to outrage the modesty of a woman, punishable with imprisonment and/or fine.
   • Section 354A: Criminalizes sexual harassment, including unwelcome physical contact, advances, or gestures, and prescribes punishment for offenses such as sexual harassment in the workplace.
   • Section 376AB: Introduces the death penalty for rape of a child under the age of 12 years.

2. The Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012:

   • Provides a comprehensive legal framework for the protection of children from sexual abuse and exploitation.
   • Defines various forms of sexual offenses against children, including penetrative sexual assault, aggravated penetrative sexual assault, sexual assault, and sexual harassment.
   • Prescribes stringent punishment for offenders, including imprisonment ranging from three years to life, and a fine.

3. The Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition, and Redressal) Act, 2013:

   • Addresses sexual harassment in the workplace and provides a mechanism for redressal of complaints.
   • Requires employers to establish Internal Complaints Committees (ICCs) to receive and address complaints of sexual harassment at work.
   • Prescribes penalties for non-compliance, including fines and cancellation of licenses or registrations.

4. The Criminal Law (Amendment) Act, 2013:

   • Amended various provisions of the IPC and other laws to enhance punishment for sexual offenses and improve mechanisms for the investigation and prosecution of such offenses.
   • Introduces new offenses, such as acid attacks and voyeurism, and prescribes stricter penalties for repeat offenders and those in positions of authority or trust.

5. The Dowry Prohibition Act, 1961:

   • Addresses the practice of dowry, which can lead to coercion and violence against women.
   • Prohibits the giving or receiving of dowry in connection with marriage and prescribes penalties for violations, including imprisonment and fines.

6. The Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005:

   • Addresses various forms of violence against women within the domestic sphere, including physical, sexual, verbal, emotional, and economic abuse.
   • Provides for protection orders, residence orders, and monetary relief for victims of domestic violence.
   • Establishes Protection Officers and Service Providers to assist victims and facilitate access to support services.

These laws, along with other legal and policy measures, seek to create a safe and supportive environment for individuals to report instances of sexual coercion and violence, access justice, and receive appropriate support and redressal. However, challenges remain in ensuring effective implementation, awareness, and enforcement of these laws to combat sexual coercion and violence effectively in India. Efforts to address systemic issues, promote gender equality, and empower survivors are essential for creating a society free from sexual violence and coercion.