Obscenity and Indecent Representation of Women in India

Abstract

‘Morality’ and ‘decency’ varies from time to time. Something which is immoral today may not be immoral tomorrow. Thus, the concept of morality and decency is not static in the society. Earlier the exposure of women through advertisements, painting, publications or otherwise was not accepted but today it has become a trend. In India, the law relating to obscenity is contained in Sections 292, 293 and 294 of IPC. In spite of these provisions, there is growing indecent representation of women mainly through advertisements. Therefore, in order to curb these crimes the Indecent Representation of Women (Prohibition) Act is enacted. This paper tries to explore the law relating to obscenity and indecent representation of women in India and whether it is effective in modern times. My paper is divided into the following subtitles- Introduction, Constitutional and Legal provisions relating to Obscenity and Indecent Representation of Women, Judicial Interpretation of Obscenity, Indecent Representation of Women on Social Media and Conclusion.