Protection of Women from Sexual Harassment (POSH) Act
Part of: Prelims and GS-II Policies and interventions
Context A petition has been filed in the Supreme Court challenging guidelines issued by the Bombay High Court in cases under the Protection of Women from Sexual Harassment (POSH) Act, which include a blanket bar on parties and advocates from sharing records, including orders and judgments, with the media.
The Protection of Women Against Sexual Harassment at Workplace Act, 2013
The Act defines sexual harassment at the workplace and creates a mechanism for redressal of complaints. It also provides safeguards against false or malicious charges.
Every employer is required to constitute an Internal Complaints Committee at each office or branch with 10 or more employees.
The Complaints Committees have the powers of civil courts for gathering evidence.
The Complaints Committees are required to provide for conciliation before initiating an inquiry if requested by the complainant.
Penalties have been prescribed for employers. Non-compliance with the provisions of the Act shall be punishable with a fine.
Repeated violations may lead to higher penalties and cancellation of license or registration to conduct business.
The State Government will notify the District Officer in every district, who will constitute a Local Complaints Committee (LCC) so as to enable women in the unorganised sector or small establishments to work in an environment free of sexual harassment.
