Reflex law

The Tamil Nadu Assembly’s Amendments to Sexual Crime Laws

• The Tamil Nadu Assembly has enacted amendments to criminal laws on sexual crimes against women.

• The amendments were prompted by political issues triggered by specific crimes.

• The government’s decision to increase punishments under penal and procedural laws was a response to criticism over a rape at Anna University.

• The amendments are based on the belief that more stringent laws deter sexual assault and harassment.

• The amendments include enhancing punishments for various sexual offences and extending bail-denying features.

• The new provision for binding protection orders ensures perpetrators do not contact survivors.

• The death penalty has been introduced for acid attack, reducing the victim to a vegetative state.

• The definition of harassment of women has been expanded to cover digital and nonverbal means.

• The question remains whether the increase in punishment increases the possibility of conviction or reduces the incidence of these crimes.

• Impartial investigation and resistance to cover-up are crucial for demonstrating commitment to women’s safety.