"Indecent Representation of Women (Prohibition) Act, 1986"

Union Cabinet approves amendments in the "Indecent Representation of Women (Prohibition) Act, 1986"

The Union Cabinet approved the introduction of Amendments to the "Indecent Representation of Women (Prohibition) Act, 1986".

Major amendments proposed are as follows:

• Broaden the scope of the law to cover the audio-visual media and material in electronic form.
• Penalties to be enhanced to a maximum of 3 years of imprisonment and fine of b/w Rs.50,000 to Rs.1,00,000 for first conviction, and imprisonment of not less than 2 years, but which may extend to 7 years, and a fine b/w Rs.1,00,000 to Rs.5,00,000 for second conviction.

Police officers not below the rank of Inspectors authorized to carry out search and seizure, in addition to State and Central Government officers authorized by the State or Central Government.