In a significant step towards enhancing the protection of women, the Government of Tamil Nadu has officially notified that the Tamil Nadu Prohibition of Harassment of Women (Amendment) Act, 2025 will come into force on January 25, 2025.
Issued by the Home Department (Police-XII), the notification specifies that, under the powers conferred by Section 1(2) of the Act, the Governor of Tamil Nadu has appointed January 25, 2025, as the effective date for the enforcement of the amendments made to the Tamil Nadu Prohibition of Harassment of Women Act, 1998. This date marks the commencement of stronger legal provisions to combat harassment against women in the state.
What Does This Mean?
This development signifies that all the provisions introduced under the Amendment Act are now enforceable, including:
- Expanded definitions of harassment, covering various forms such as digital, electronic, and non-verbal harassment.
- Increased penalties, including up to 5 years of imprisonment for first-time offenders and fines ranging from ₹1 lakh to ₹10 lakh.
- Stronger measures for institutions like schools, hospitals, hotels, and other public spaces to implement protective mechanisms, such as CCTV cameras and lighting.
- The ability for victims to request Protection Orders, which prevent the accused from making any form of contact with the victim.
With this law now officially in force, Tamil Nadu has taken another critical step toward making its streets, public spaces, and institutions safer for women by ensuring swift action and serious consequences for those engaging in harassment.
