Statement by India at the 38th Session of the Human Rights Council (18 June to 06 July, 2018) on Annual full-day discussion on the human rights of women Panel 1: The impact of online violence on women human rights defenders. [21 June 2018, Geneva]
We appreciate convening the panel discussion on the topic.
2. India has taken various steps to address cases of online violence against women. A Central Reporting Mechanism is being created to work as a hotline for easier reporting of any cyber crime. The process for removing objectionable imagery from the digital space is also made easier. Increased awareness is being promoted among public and authorities on better prevention and redressal.
3. We take immense pride in our extremely vibrant civil society. India is committed to ensuring a safe working environment for all including those engaged in promoting and protecting human rights. Representations are received by the government on providing security from or on behalf of individuals, including human rights defenders. All such representations are examined on the basis of information available and appropriate action is taken by the government.
4. The Press Council of India (PCI) is an autonomous, statutory, quasi-judicial body which is responsible for ensuring independence of newspapers and journalists. It works towards ensuring safety of journalists and has issued letter to all states/union territories to provide data of cases filed on the issues of threats/attacks/killings of journalists along with the current status of the cases.
5. Apart from the Constitutional guarantees, many specific laws exist to address violence against women and bring perpetrators to justice. Criminal Law (Amendment) Act, 2013, has enhanced punishment for crimes like rape, sexual harassment, stalking, voyeurism, acid attacks, indecent gestures like words and inappropriate touch etc. The Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013 provides a safe and secure environment to women at the workplace.
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