YOGA's Blog

In India, women’s mental health is often undermined, with harassment exacerbating the issue. Despite legal provisions, many women continue to face various forms of mental harassment, affecting their well-being and dignity.

Mental harassment against women can manifest in different ways, including verbal abuse, emotional manipulation, cyberbullying, stalking, and gaslighting. These behaviors not only cause psychological distress but also hinder women’s participation in society.

The Indian legal system has recognized the importance of addressing mental harassment against women through various laws:

The Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005:

This law acknowledges different forms of abuse, including mental harassment, within domestic relationships. It provides protection and relief to women facing mental cruelty by enabling them to seek legal recourse against their abusers.


The Indian Penal Code (IPC):

Several sections of the IPC address acts constituting mental harassment, such as Section 509 which criminalizes words, gestures, or acts intended to insult the modesty of a woman.

The Information Technology (IT) Act, 2000:

This act addresses cybercrimes, including cyberbullying and online harassment, which can severely impact women’s mental health. It provides provisions for punishment against offenders engaging in such activities.

Despite these legal frameworks, challenges persist in effectively addressing mental harassment against women in India. These challenges include social stigma, lack of awareness, and underreporting due to fear of retaliation.

To combat these issues effectively, there is a need for continued efforts from law enforcement agencies, policymakers, civil society organizations, and the community at large. Empowering women with knowledge of their rights, strengthening support systems, and fostering a culture of zero tolerance towards harassment are crucial steps towards ensuring women’s mental well-being and dignity in India.