Bombay High Court Says "Convince Customer Like You Convince Your Husband" Remark Not Meant to Insult Modesty
Introduction In a case that stirred discussions around workplace dignity and gender sensitivity, the Bombay High Court has ruled that the controversial remark— “Convince the customer as you convince your husband” —made by a senior manager to a female employee does not amount to insulting her modesty under Section 509 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC). The court clarified that while the comment may have been inappropriate or unprofessional, it lacked the intent required to qualify as a criminal offense. Background of the Case The case was filed by a woman employee working in a corporate setting who alleged that her senior made an offensive remark equating customer persuasion to persuading one's husband. She claimed that the comment was demeaning, sexually colored , and lowered her self-respect in the workplace. An FIR was registered under Section 509 IPC , which deals with words or gestures intended to insult the modesty of a woman. What the Court Observed Justice B...