Legal Framework for Women's Rights — Amendments

Amendment	Year	Description	Impact
Criminal Law (Amendment) Act	2013	Introduced significant changes to the IPC, CrPC, and Indian Evidence Act in response to the Nirbhaya case. Broadened the definition of rape, increased punishments, and introduced new offences like sexual harassment, voyeurism, stalking, and disrobing.	Strengthened legal provisions against sexual offences, made laws more victim-centric, and increased accountability for perpetrators. Led to a more comprehensive framework for women's safety.
Maternity Benefit (Amendment) Act	2017	Amended the Maternity Benefit Act, 1961, increasing paid maternity leave from 12 to 26 weeks, introducing leave for commissioning and adopting mothers, and mandating crèche facilities in certain establishments.	Significantly improved maternity benefits for working women, promoting women's participation in the workforce and supporting work-life balance. Aligned India's laws with international best practices.
Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Act	2019	Enacted after the Supreme Court's Shayara Bano judgment, this Act criminalized the practice of instant triple talaq (talaq-e-biddat), making it a cognizable and non-bailable offence.	Provided legal protection to Muslim women against instant triple talaq, ensuring their marital rights and dignity. A significant step towards gender justice within Muslim personal law.
Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS)	2023	Replaced the Indian Penal Code (IPC). While largely retaining the essence of women-centric criminal provisions, it aims to streamline procedures, integrate technology, and enhance efficiency in the criminal justice system.	Aims for faster and more victim-centric justice delivery for crimes against women. The long-term impact will depend on effective implementation and training of law enforcement and judiciary.