Punjab Social Security, Women and Child Development Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur has expressed serious concern over the increasing instances of obscene portrayal of women in Punjab ads, warning that the state government will not tolerate any violation of women’s dignity and honour.
Addressing the matter, Dr. Baljit Kaur said, “It is alarming that several advertisements and media content depicting women in a derogatory or obscene manner have come to our notice. The Indecent Representation of Women (Prohibition) Act, 1986 strictly prohibits such depictions.”
She emphasized that portraying women in an obscene or degrading manner through advertisements, publications, paintings, or any media platform is a punishable offence. “Strict legal action will be taken against anyone violating the law,” she added.
Punjab Government Prioritizes Women’s Safety Against Obscene Portrayal in Ads
Highlighting the Punjab Government’s priorities, Dr. Baljit Kaur said, “The dignity, honour, and safety of women remain among the top priorities of the government. Any violation regarding the portrayal of women will invite stringent legal consequences under the law.”
Issuing directives to all media platforms, the Minister stated, “All TV channels, websites, web applications, newspapers, and audio-visual platforms must ensure that no advertisement or content depicting women in an obscene or derogatory manner is broadcast, printed, or published. Dissemination of such content will be treated as a legal violation.”
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She further instructed all District Programme Officers in Punjab to take suo motu action in such cases and ensure prompt response to complaints, strictly in accordance with the legal provisions. Periodic reviews of these cases will also be conducted at both district and state levels by the Deputy Commissioners.
Dr. Baljit Kaur confirmed that instructions have been issued to all Senior Superintendents of Police in Punjab to provide full support for effective enforcement of the law.
Punjab Government Committed to Ending Obscene Portrayal of Women
Reiterating Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann’s commitment, she said, “The Punjab Government is dedicated to safeguarding women’s rights, dignity, and security, and is continuously working to promote awareness and respect for women in society.”
Describing this initiative as a decisive step, Dr. Baljit Kaur added, “This move ensures the creation of a safe, respectful, and dignified society, free from the obscene portrayal of women in Punjab ads.”