Published by: Rishu Ranjan

College: Asian Law College, Noida-125.

INTRODUCTION
Vulgarity, a term often subjective and open to interpretation, encompasses various forms of
indecent or offensive behaviour, speech, or display. In the context of women, vulgarity can take the
shape of objectification, sexualization, or any act that reduces them to mere objects of desire. As
this issue deeply impacts both society and the well-being of women, it is crucial to understand its
implications and the legal remedies available to combat this societal plight.

UNDERSTANDING VULGAR DISPLAY OF WOMEN
Vulgar display of women refers to the public exhibition or portrayal of women in a manner that is
overtly sexual, derogatory, or demeaning. It includes actions, such as catcalling, making lewd
gestures, verbal harassment, and sharing explicit images without consent. Not only does this
objectify women, but it also perpetuates harmful stereotypes and reinforces gender inequality.

THE IMPACT OF VULGARITY ON SOCIETY
The widespread prevalence of vulgarity in society exerts a detrimental influence on various aspects
of our social fabric. It not only contributes to the normalization of disrespectful behaviour but also
fosters a culture that tolerates inequality and sexism. By devaluing and dehumanizing women, vulgar
displays perpetuate harmful power dynamics, leading to a range of negative consequences:

• Reinforcement of Gender Stereotypes: Vulgar displays perpetuate regressive gender stereotypes,
  associating women primarily with their sexual allure rather than their abilities, achievements, or
  intellect.
• Sub-bullet point: This further contributes to gender discrimination, limiting opportunities for
  women in various spheres of life.
• Normalization of Violence: By objectifying women, vulgar displays create an environment that
  normalizes violence against them. Such normalization can desensitize individuals to the gravity of
  physical and emotional harm inflicted on women.
  Psychological Trauma: Women subjected to vulgar displays often experience profound psychological
  trauma, ranging from anxiety and depression to post- traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The constant
  fear of being objectified or harassed detrimentally impacts their mental health.
  LEGAL REMEDIES AGAINST VULGAR DISPLAY OF WOMEN
  To combat the social menace of vulgar display of women, legal frameworks have been established to
  provide women with recourse and reinforce societal norms that promote respect, equality, and
  dignity. One of the significant taken in this direction is the enactment of laws, such as Sections 354A
  to 354D of the Indian Penal Code:

SECTION 354A= SEXUAL HARASSMENT

This section criminalizes any unwelcome physical contact and advances involving explicit sexual
overtones. It recognizes that women have the right to live and work free from the fear of sexual
harassment.

SECTION 354B=VOYEURISM
Section 354B deals with offenses related to voyeurism, where individuals capture or disseminate
images of a woman engaging in a private act without her consent. It aims to protect women’s
privacy and dignity.

SECTION 354C=DISROBING
This section specifically addresses the act of forcibly stripping or disrobing a woman against her will.
It acknowledges the trauma inflicted upon women in such situations and provides legal remedies for
the offense.

SECTION 354D= STALKING
Stalking, a behaviour that causes significant mental distress to is specifically targeted by Section
354D. It recognizes the seriousness of the issue and provides women with legal means to protect
themselves from undue surveillance.

CONCLUSION
The Supreme Court’s judgment on the vulgar display of women, as reflected in Sections 354A to
354D of the Indian Penal Code, signifies the recognition of the societal harm caused by such acts.
The legal remedies provided serve as a deterrent and a means for victims to seek justice and rebuild
their lives. However, legal intervention alone is insufficient. It is crucial for society as a whole to
collectively reject and challenge the normalization of vulgar displays of women. By fostering a
culture of respect, equality, and empathy, we can create a safer and more inclusive environment for
all.