Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin on Friday introduced a bill in the state assembly aimed at further amending the Tamil Nadu Prohibition of Harassment of Women Act, 1998, to enhance women's safety and strengthen legal provisions against crimes targeting women. Another bill was also proposed to amend the applicability of Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita and Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita.
Speaking in Tamil Nadu Assembly on the issue of women's safety, CM MK Stalin said, "Tamil Nadu is the state which ensures the safety of women. For this, the state govt ensures strict punishment against those who commit crimes against women. The government is controlling crime against women with an iron fist. Under this government, the chargesheet in 86% of the cases was filed in 60 days."
"The govt has conducted several awareness campaigns on women's safety across schools, colleges and public places. No one can forgive those who commit sexual crimes against women," he said.
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The Proposed Amendments
The amendment to Tamil Nadu Prohibition of Harassment of Women Act, 1998, stipulates that insulting a woman's dignity could result in imprisonment for 3 to 5 years. It also mandates a 3 to 5 years prison sentence for disclosing the identities of victims in specific crimes.
The bill requires all workplaces to install CCTV cameras, ensuring comprehensive coverage under the management's responsibility. It also stipulates that complaints must be resolved within 24 hours with non-compliance resulting in a fine of Rs 50,000. Previously, there was no time limit, and the maximum fine was capped at Rs 2,000.