The National Commission for Women (NCW) has issued an advisory to all states and Union Territories, emphasizing the need for strict compliance with the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013. The advisory aims to create safe, inclusive, and gender-sensitive working environments for women in all sectors. NCW Chairperson Vijaya Rahatkar highlighted the importance of upholding dignity and ensuring equal opportunities for women in every workplace.
The advisory includes recommendations for establishing state-level POSH Monitoring Cells and conducting mandatory annual POSH audits for establishments with ten or more employees. It also calls for the appointment of District Officers under the POSH Act to oversee implementation and grievance redressal at the district level. Employers are urged to constitute Internal Committees with proper representation and ensure timely inquiry and disposal of complaints.
To address vulnerabilities in the informal sector, the advisory stresses the need for effective Local Committees in every district. It also recommends the appointment of Nodal Officers at various levels to facilitate complaint registration and referral processes. Employers are encouraged to promote gender-sensitive workplaces through workshops, awareness campaigns, and specialized training for committee members.
The advisory further emphasizes the use of the SHe-Box platform for online registration and monitoring of workplace harassment complaints. It calls for robust safeguards against retaliation and highlights the importance of awareness campaigns in rural areas and unorganized workplaces. The ultimate goal is to promote a culture of dignity, accountability, and safety in all Indian workplaces.
