The Indecent Representation of Women (Prohibition) Act,1986 was enacted on 2 October, 1987. It addresses gender justice by combating the objectification and denigration of women through indecent representations in advertisements, publications, and other media (Section 2). The Act empowers authorities to take action against depictions deemed indecent through written complaints and inspections (Sections 8 and 9). The Act aims to challenge harmful portrayals that reinforce gender stereotypes, sexualize women, and contribute to a culture of disrespect and discrimination. The Act stands as a significant effort to curb harmful representations of women and promote a more respectful and just portrayal in media. Continued discussions on its interpretation, enforcement, and potential amendments are crucial in maximizing its impact on achieving gender justice in a constantly evolving media landscape.
The Act extends to whole of India excluding Jammu and Kashmir. It consists of 6 sections.