In India, the law
addressing sexual harassment in the workplace is the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition, and
Redressal) Act, 2013. This act was enacted to provide a legal framework for
addressing and preventing instances of sexual harassment against women in
various workplaces. Here are the key provisions of the Sexual Harassment Act in
India:
Definition
of Sexual Harassment: The Act defines sexual harassment
broadly to include unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and
other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature.
Applicability:
The Act applies to all workplaces, including the public and private sectors,
regardless of the number of employees.
Internal
Complaints Committee (ICC): The ICC is responsible for
receiving and investigating complaints of sexual harassment, conducting
inquiries, and recommending appropriate action.
Duties
of Employers: Employers are required to provide
necessary assistance to the complainant, facilitate conciliation if requested,
and take appropriate action against the harasser.
Confidentiality:
The Act mandates that all proceedings related to complaints of sexual
harassment be conducted in a confidential manner to protect the privacy and
dignity of the complainant and the accused.
Penalties:
Employers who fail to comply with the provisions of the Act may face penalties,
including fines.
Awareness
and Training: Employers are required to organize
awareness programs and conduct training sessions to educate employees about the
provisions of the Act and prevention of sexual harassment.
The Sexual Harassment
of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition, and Redressal) Act, 2013, is a
significant step towards creating a safe and conducive work environment for
women in India and ensuring prompt redressal of complaints related to sexual
harassment.
