Fri Jan 10 19:52:29 UTC 2025: ## Tamil Nadu Strengthens Laws to Protect Women from Harassment

**Chennai, January 11, 2025** – The Tamil Nadu Assembly is considering significant amendments to strengthen laws protecting women from harassment, as proposed by Chief Minister M.K. Stalin. The proposed amendments include a new provision allowing for “protection orders” that legally prevent accused harassers from contacting their victims by any means. These orders can be issued by an executive magistrate after investigation and a hearing. Violating a protection order will result in up to three years imprisonment and a ₹1 lakh fine.

The Bill broadens the definition of harassment to include digital and electronic means, and increases punishments for various offenses. Harassment at public places (including educational institutions, places of worship, and transportation hubs) will be treated as cognizable and non-bailable offenses, with penalties ranging up to ten years imprisonment and a ₹10 lakh fine for repeat offenders. Intentional harassment resulting in death carries a potential death penalty, while harassment leading to suicide could result in a 15-year prison sentence and a ₹2 lakh fine. Institutions are mandated to install CCTV cameras and promptly report complaints to the police.

Further amendments are proposed to the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023, increasing penalties for disclosing victim identities and enhancing minimum sentences for assault and gang rape. The Bill proposes a minimum life sentence for gang rape, including cases involving minors. The Bills are expected to be considered by the Assembly on January 11th. The government emphasizes the availability of mental health support helplines for those in distress.

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