In India, the law that addresses the offense of stalking and provides protection against stalking is the Section 354D of the Indian Penal Code (IPC). This section was introduced through the Criminal Law (Amendment) Act, 2013, following the Nirbhaya case, to address issues related to crimes against women. Section 354D of the IPC - Stalking: According to this section: Definition: Stalking is defined as any person following a woman and contacting, or attempting to contact, the woman to foster personal interaction, despite the woman's clear indication of disinterest. Punishment: Stalking is a criminal offense, and upon conviction, the offender may be punished with imprisonment for a term which may extend to three years for the first offense and shall also be liable to fine. In case of a subsequent conviction, the punishment may be imprisonment for a term which may extend to five years and a fine. Protective Measures: The law allows for the issuance of protection orders to ensure the safety of the victim. A protection order may include restrictions on the accused person's movements and actions to prevent further stalking. It's important to note that stalking is a serious offense, and victims of stalking can seek protection by reporting the matter to the police. Legal action can be initiated against the perpetrator under Section 354D of the IPC. Additionally, victims may also seek assistance from legal professionals and support organizations to understand their rights and explore available remedies.
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