What punishment does a man face for making sexual remarks to a woman?

In detail

Section 75 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 defines sexual harassment as any unwelcome sexual behaviour towards a woman. It lists four types of conduct: (i) physical contact and overt sexual advances, (ii) demanding sexual favours, (iii) showing pornographic material, and (iv) making sexually coloured remarks. For the first three acts, the law allows a rigorous prison term of up to three years, a fine, or both. For the fourth act—making sexually coloured remarks—the maximum imprisonment is one year, again with the option of a fine or both. The provision applies only to men and only when the woman does not consent to the behaviour. The punishment is mandatory; the court decides the exact term and fine within the limits set by the statute. This aims to protect women from unwanted sexual conduct and provides a clear legal remedy for victims.