The Protection of Women from Sexual Harassment at Workplace Act, 2013 (POSH Act 2013)
About:
The Protection of Women from Sexual Harassment at Workplace Act, 2013 (POSH Act 2013) is a landmark legislation in India that seeks to protect women from sexual harassment.
This law has enabled Indian women to stand up for their rights and assert their autonomy in the workplace.
Key Provisions of the POSH Act, 2013:
- The POSH Act was enacted to protect against sexual harassment of women in workplaces.
- This Act makes it mandatory for employers to provide a safe and secure work environment to female employees.
- v It also requires employers to set up Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) in their organisation to address complaints of sexual harassment.
Key provisions of the POSH Act 2013 include:
- Every employer is required to display a notice in the organisation providing details of the protection given to female employees against sexual harassment.
- Employers must constitute an Internal Complaints Committee in their organisation to address complaints of sexual harassment.
- A woman must head the ICC; at least half of its members should be women.
- Employers must take steps to prevent sexual harassment and ensure that the victims are not victimised or discriminated against.
- Employers must provide necessary support and assistance to the complainant and make arrangements for her work in case she has to be transferred.
Challenges in Implementing the POSH Act, 2013:
The POSH Act 2013 was introduced in India to protect women in the workplace from sexual harassment. Despite its noble aims, there have been some challenges in implementing the Act:
- Awareness about the Act is still low in certain areas, making it difficult for victims to report cases.
- Many organisations need proper grievance redressal mechanisms or have yet to make any effort to make employees aware of their rights under the Act.
- Workplace culture can be a major factor in the prevalence of sexual harassment, which employers and organisations need to tackle head-on.
- With the right education and awareness, the POSH Act 2013 can be effective in protecting women from sexual harassment and promoting a safe workplace.
Syllabus: Prelims + Mains; GS II – Polity and Governance
