How does Section 509 address cases where a woman is harassed based on her caste or ethnicity?
Section 509 of the Indian Penal Code primarily focuses on offenses related to insulting the modesty of a woman, and it may not specifically address cases of harassment based on caste or ethnicity. In instances where a woman experiences harassment tied to her caste or ethnicity, legal remedies are often sought under the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989. This Act provides specific provisions to address offenses against individuals from marginalized communities, including caste-based harassment. Victims can file complaints with the police, leading to investigations and potential legal action against the perpetrators. The Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act aims to safeguard the rights and dignity of individuals facing discrimination based on caste or ethnicity, offering a more comprehensive legal framework beyond the scope of Section 509.