Abstract

This study explores how ingrained social norms affect legal interpretations and outcomes in gender-related situations by examining the relationship between gender stereotypes and the Indian Penal Code (IPC). Even with progressive legal reforms designed to safeguard women's rights, patriarchal attitudes frequently make it difficult for these laws to be put into practice. In order to identify situations where gender prejudices are present in court rulings and law enforcement actions, we examine particular sections of the IPC, such as those that deal with domestic abuse, sexual assault, rape, cruelty and dowries. In spite of being a vital framework for addressing gender-based violence, the research paper contends that the IPC frequently reflects and reinforces pre-existing stereotypes through a qualitative analysis of case studies and legal documents. Our objective is to make a contribution to the current discussion on gender justice in India by promoting a more sophisticated view of gender in legal situations and proposing reforms that tackle both cultural attitudes and legal structures. This study emphasizes how important it is to tackle legal reform holistically, giving gender sensitivity first priority and combating discriminatory practices in the legal system.

Keywords