LAWS RELATING TO MARITAL RAPE IN INDIA

Abstract

Marital rape cases are a significant concern in this era. Women in both rural and urban areas have faced such occurrences in their lives. Marital rape can significantly impact the physical health of the women and it can also detrimental effect on the mental health of victims. One of the significant long-term effects of marital rape is post-traumatic stress disorder which can usually be found in war and natural disaster victims. Marital rape is also a significant concern in countries such as India. This report has highlighted the experiences of women with Marital rape and sexual violence in Indian marriage settings. This report also has emphasised different acts in the Indian judiciary system which address marital rape such as IPC section 375, section 376 and Indian Act of 19,21. This report has also highlighted marital rape and laws in India and discussed IPC section 498 A which addresses marital rape and violence against women. This report has also highlighted different challenges of deploying marital rape laws such as concerns of the Indian government about communalising Marital rape. The old law of IPC section 375 is still maintained which has created difficulties for women has been highlighted here.