Tharoor Pushes Bill to Criminalise Marital Rape in Lok Sabha
Tharoor Pushes Bill to Criminalise Marital Rape in Lok Sabha
Congress MP Shashi Tharoor introduces a bill to criminalise marital rape, asserting marriage cannot negate consent and that 'only yes means yes'.
New Delhi — Congress MP Shashi Tharoor has introduced a bill in the Lok Sabha to criminalise marital rape, a move aimed at removing the exception that currently allows non-consensual sex within marriage. The proposed amendment to the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita seeks to ensure that consent is required in all intimate relations, regardless of marital status. Tharoor emphasized the need to uphold women's rights and constitutional values, arguing that marriage cannot negate a woman's right to grant or deny consent. He highlighted the principle of consent through the popular phrase “no means no” and underscored that the law must reflect the reality of women’s autonomy within households.
Supporters of the proposal say it is an urgent step toward closing a gap in India’s legal framework on gender violence and consent. By removing the marriage exemption, the bill would set a clear standard for accountability and protection under the penal code. The discussion comes amid ongoing debates about women’s rights and systemic protections against domestic violence.
If the bill progresses, it would prompt parliamentary debates and potential amendments to the penal provisions governing violence and sexual relations. Critics may seek clarifications on definitions, exceptions, and enforcement mechanisms, but proponents argue that a clear, exception-free stance on marital rape is essential to safeguarding women’s bodily autonomy and dignity.
Cover image source: Shashi Tharoor introduces bill to criminalise marital rape: 'Marriage cannot negate right' 🔗
