Adv. Shubhangi Pandey, Managing Partner at Vasantam Associates, was invited as a guest speaker at Arvind Mahila College, Patna, where she addressed students on crucial issues including sexual harassment, women’s safety, legal awareness, and the POSH Act. She emphasized the importance of self-reliance among women and the role of educated youth in building an empowered and equitable society.

Women’s Safety and Legal Protections in India

1. Protection from Domestic Violence – The Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005

This law offers protection to women from physical, emotional, sexual, verbal, and economic abuse by a husband or in-laws. Women can seek protection orders, residence orders, and monetary relief through this Act.

2. Dowry Prohibition Act, 1961

Giving or taking dowry is illegal in India. Women harassed for dowry can file complaints under this Act and also under Section 498A of the Indian Penal Code, which criminalizes cruelty by husband or in-laws.

3. Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013

Ensures a safe working environment for women and mandates Internal Complaints Committees in all workplaces to address sexual harassment complaints.

4. Right to Free Legal Aid

Under the Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987, women are entitled to free legal aid, regardless of their financial status, in matters like domestic violence, harassment, or property disputes.

5. Section 498A of IPC – Cruelty by Husband or In-laws

This section protects women from mental and physical cruelty. It’s a criminal offense punishable with imprisonment.

6. Fast-Track Courts and Helplines

Special fast-track courts are set up for speedy trial of crimes against women. Women can access 24/7 helplines like 181 (Women’s Helpline) or 112 (Emergency Response).

Highlighting social issues like dowry and gender inequality, she remarked that even educated individuals often take pride in accepting dowry, which reflects a deep-rooted social concern. She emphasized that empowering women and making them self-reliant is essential to fulfill the vision of a developed India. Adv Shubhangi Pandey encouraged the students to be aware of their legal rights, maintain caution on social media, and actively contribute to building a safe and equal society. 

While addressing the students interning at Prem Youth Foundation, Advocate Shubhangi Pandey from the Patna High Court expressed concern that even educated individuals today consider taking dowry a matter of pride. She emphasized that women must become self-reliant to realize Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of a “Developed India.” Adv Shubhangi Pandey stated that without the participation of half the population, India cannot become a truly strong nation.

She also spoke on women’s safety, legal awareness, and the importance of understanding laws related to protection and equality. The founder of the Foundation, Gandhian Prem Ji, described female foeticide as a major blot on society. Pandey further added that daughters are in no way less than sons, highlighting examples of women like Kalpana Chawla, PV Sindhu, and Kiran Bedi as inspirations. However, she also expressed concern over rising cases of dowry deaths and violence against women.

She advised students to stay cautious while making friends on social media and avoid meeting strangers in isolated places. The session concluded with journalist Neelam Verma shedding light on women’s safety laws and spreading awareness among students.