Punjab & Haryana High Court, Chandigarh
Citation(2013) 1 SCC 598
CourtSupreme Court of India
Date30 November 2012
Year2013
BenchK.S. Radhakrishnan, Dipak Misra JJ.
Acts/ArticlesIPC Sections 294, 509, Article 21
CategoryConstitutional Law, Criminal Law, Women's Rights

Key Principle Established

Directions issued to combat eve-teasing nationwide — deployment of plain-clothed female police, CCTV installation, complaint committees in all institutions.

Brief Facts

The case arose from incidents of eve-teasing and sexual harassment in public places. The Supreme Court took cognizance of the widespread problem affecting women and girl students in buses, trains, educational institutions, and workplaces.

Directions Issued

  • All State Governments must depute plain-clothed female police officers at bus stands, railway stations, malls, parks, places of worship
  • CCTV cameras to be installed at strategic positions in public places
  • All educational institutions and workplaces must constitute complaint committees
  • Stringent action to be taken against eve-teasers under IPC Sections 294 and 509

Impact & Significance

This judgment led to nationwide anti-eve-teasing measures and strengthened the safety infrastructure for women in public spaces. It was a precursor to the Criminal Law (Amendment) Act, 2013 which introduced stricter penalties for sexual offences.

Tags & Related Topics

Constitutional Law Criminal Law Women's Rights IPC Sections 294 509 Article 21
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Disclaimer

This judgment summary is for educational and research purposes. While care has been taken to accurately represent the ratio and findings, for authoritative reference always consult the original judgment text from official sources (SCC Online, AIR, Manupatra, or court websites).

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