Yes, it is mandatory for the employer to submit an annual report to the District Officer under the provisions of The Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition, and Redressal) Act, 2013.
Legal Basis 1. Section 21 and Section 22 of the POSH Act, 2013:
2. Rule 14 of the POSH Rules, 2013: Annual Report Details:
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Under the POSH Act, 2013, the answer to whether an aggrieved woman can make an oral complaint to the Internal Committee is No.
As per Section 9 of the POSH Act, an aggrieved woman must provide a written complaint of sexual harassment to the Internal Committee (IC) or the Local Committee (LC) within three months of the incident, or in the case of a series of incidents, within three months of the last incident. However, the Act also includes provisions to address situations where a woman is unable to submit a written complaint due to practical difficulties. In such cases, the Presiding Officer or any member of the IC/LC must assist the aggrieved woman in converting her oral account into a written format, ensuring that no woman is denied the opportunity to lodge a complaint.
The complaint by the female employee claiming that her manager is creating a hostile work environment by assigning higher targets needs to be analysed under Section 3 of the POSH Act, 2013.
Key Provisions under Section 3 of the POSH Act: 1. Definition of Sexual Harassment: Section 2 (n) explicitly defines sexual harassment to include any unwelcome acts or behaviour such as:
2. Hostile Work Environment in the Context of Sexual Harassment: The Act extends to situations where a hostile work environment is created due to acts of sexual harassment. For a claim to be valid under the POSH Act, the hostile work environment must stem from behaviour linked to sexual harassment. For instance:
The Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013 was enacted specifically to address the issue of sexual harassment faced by women at workplaces. Its primary aim is to provide a structured mechanism for the prevention and redressal of such incidents, ensuring a safe working environment for women. Consequently, the Act defines clear boundaries regarding its applicability, which excludes complaints of sexual harassment filed by men or individuals who do not identify as women.
Legal Framework of the POSH Act: 1. Mandate of the IC:
2. Definition of 'Aggrieved Woman':
Under the POSH Act, 2013, it is not mandatory to include union office bearers or representatives in the Internal Committee (IC). The Act's intent and structure emphasize that the IC is designed to address sexual harassment issues in a focused and impartial manner, distinct from the functions and objectives of a workers' union. Here is a detailed explanation:
Purpose and Objectives 1. Union's Objective:
The manager's oral warning to a female employee about demotion for not meeting targets does not fall under the definition of sexual harassment under the POSH Act, 2013. Here's a detailed explanation based on the law:
Analysis under Section 2(n) of the POSH Act Sexual harassment, as defined under Section 2(n), requires the behaviour to be of a sexual nature, such as:
Analysis of the Given Scenario Under the POSH Act, 2013
The Protection of Women from Sexual Harassment (POSH) Act, 2013, primarily aims to protect women from sexual harassment at the workplace and provides a mechanism for prevention, redressal, and resolution of complaints related to sexual harassment. Key Provisions to Consider Definition of Sexual Harassment (Section 2(n)): Sexual harassment includes one or more of the following unwelcome acts or behaviour:
The Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition, and Redressal) Act, 2013 (POSH Act) aims to safeguard women from sexual harassment at the workplace. Its objectives stem from the recognition that sexual harassment violates a woman's fundamental rights to equality, dignity and safety, as guaranteed by the Constitution of India.
The Act provides a robust framework for prevention, prohibition, and redressal of complaints of sexual harassment, creating a safe and respectful work environment for women. Key Objectives in Detail 1. Protection Against Sexual Harassment: The primary goal is to protect women from any unwelcome act or behaviour, whether physical, verbal, or non-verbal, of a sexual nature.
What constitutes a hostile work environment under the POSH Act, 2013, in t sexual harassment?3/14/2025
A hostile work environment in the context of sexual harassment, as outlined in Section 3(2)(iv) of the POSH Act, 2013, refers to a workplace where unwelcome sexual behaviour, actions, or remarks create an intimidating, offensive, or hostile atmosphere for the woman. This behaviour can interfere with her ability to perform her work, making the workplace uncomfortable or distressing.
Characteristics of a Hostile Work Environment:
Examples of a Hostile Work Environment: 1. Sexually Charged Comments or Jokes: Repeated remarks, jokes, or comments that are sexual in nature, such as innuendos, about a woman’s appearance, clothing, or body.
Quid Pro Quo in the context of Section 3 of the Sexual Harassment of Women (Prevention, Prohibition, and Redressal) Act, 2013 refers to situations where a woman is subjected to sexual harassment at work in exchange for some benefit or in fear of retaliation. The Latin phrase "quid pro quo" means "something for something" and, in this context, it describes a situation where sexual favours are either demanded in return for employment benefits or are threatened to be withheld if the favours are not provided.
Section 3(2) specifically outlines circumstances that can amount to quid pro quo harassment, with clear examples of how this might happen in the workplace: Examples: 1. Implied or Explicit Promise of Preferential Treatment in Employment (Section 3(2)(i)):
Under the POSH Act, 2013, a complaint of sexual harassment can still be valid even if it arises after an adverse employment decision, such as the denial of an increment due to poor performance, provided that the complaint is related to circumstances outlined in Section 3(2) of the Act. To determine the validity of the complaint, it is crucial to examine whether the adverse decision or the environment was linked to sexual harassment, as described in the law.
Key points from Section 3(2) of the POSH Act, 2013: 1. Preferential or Detrimental Treatment:
In the context of Section 2(n) of the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013 (POSH Act), the term "unwelcome" is a critical aspect of defining sexual harassment. It refers to any behaviour, act, or conduct that is not solicited or invited by the recipient and is regarded as offensive or unwanted by them.
Explanation of "Unwelcome" For an act to be classified as sexual harassment under the POSH Act, the behaviour in question must be unwelcome to the recipient. The key elements are:
Under the provisions of the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace Prohibition and Redressal) Act (POSH Act, 2013), a husband can file a sexual harassment complaint on behalf of his wife under specific circumstances. this by breaking down the relevant sections of the Act as below:
1. Who is an Aggrieved Woman? As per Section 2(a) of the POSH Act:
2. Who is the Respondent? As per Section 2(m), the "respondent" is the person against whom the aggrieved woman (wife) has filed a complaint. This person is the alleged perpetrator of the sexual harassment.
Yes, the sexual harassment complaint would be valid if the incident occurred during a training program outside the workplace, provided the following conditions are met:
1. Training Program Sponsored by the Company: If the training program was organized or sponsored by the company and it was part of the employee’s job responsibilities, it falls under the "course of employment." This means that even though the incident happened outside the physical office, the location qualifies as a workplace under Section 2(o)(iv) of the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013.
Yes, even if a company has no female employees, it is still required to form an Internal Committee (IC) under the POSH Act, 2013. This is because the act is designed to protect all women who may visit or engage with the workplace, not just employees. Here's why:
1. Scope of the Act: The POSH Act is aimed at preventing and addressing sexual harassment against women in the workplace, as highlighted in the preamble of the act. The protection is not limited to female employees; it extends to any woman who may visit the workplace, whether as a client, vendor, or any other role. 2. Definition of 'Aggrieved Woman': Section 2(a) defines an 'aggrieved woman' as someone who alleges sexual harassment, regardless of whether she is employed by the organization. This includes any woman of any age who comes into contact with the workplace, reinforcing that the act covers women beyond the company's employees.
Under the POSH Act, 2013, having a single Internal Committee (IC) for three offices in Bangalore, each with 20+ employees, would not be compliant with the law. Here's why:
1. Definition of Workplace (Section 2(o)(ii) of the POSH Act): The definition of a “workplace” under the POSH Act is quite broad and includes not just the main office but any branch, unit, or location where employees carry out the company’s business. This section defines a workplace as:
Yes, an external member of the Internal Committee under the Sexual Harassment Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition, and Redressal) Act, 2013 [POSH Act, 2013] can be a lawyer, even if they are not associated with a Non-Governmental Organization, provided they meet the required criteria outlined in the law.
1. POSH Act, 2013 - Provisions Related to External Members The POSH Act, 2013 requires that every organization with more than 10 employees establish an Internal Committee to address complaints of sexual harassment. The Internal Committee must consist of:
The external member of the Internal Committee (IC) constituted under the POSH Act, 2013, can continue to serve on the committee for more than 3 years, but not continuously without reappointment. Let's break down the answer in detail:
Legal Provision (Section 4(3) of the POSH Act, 2013): Section 4(3) of the POSH Act states that the Presiding Officer and every member of the Internal Committee, including the external member, shall hold office for a term not exceeding three years from the date of their nomination. This tenure limit applies equally to all members, whether internal employees or the external member from a non-governmental organization (NGO) or someone experienced in issues related to sexual harassment. Tenure Limit:
Section 4 of the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013 (commonly referred to as the POSH Act,
2013) focuses on the Constitution of the Internal Committee (IC), which is a mandatory body for employers to establish in every workplace for addressing complaints related to sexual harassment. Subsection (1): Mandatory Formation of the IC
Yes, a woman can file a sexual harassment complaint against another woman under The Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013.
Legal Basis: Definition of Aggrieved Woman (Section 2(a))
Definition of Sexual Harassment (Section 2(n))
Yes, an Internal Committee's (IC) inquiry under the POSH Act, 2013, would be invalid if the respondent is not given a copy of the complaint. This is based on the principles of natural justice and the statutory provisions of the Act and Rules.
Legal Basis for the Requirement 1. Rule 7(2) of the POSH Rules, 2013: It explicitly states that upon receiving the complaint, the Complaints Committee (IC or LC) must send a copy to the respondent within seven working days. 2. Rule 7(3) of the POSH Rules, 2013: The respondent is required to file a reply along with supporting documents, list of witnesses, etc., within ten working days from the receipt of the complaint. 3. Section 11(1) of the POSH Act, 2013: The inquiry must follow the service rules applicable to the respondent, or in the absence of such rules, follow prescribed procedures. 4. Section 11(3) of the POSH Act, 2013: The IC has powers akin to a civil court for summoning, enforcing attendance, and requiring discovery and production of documents. 5. Rule 7(4) of the POSH Rules, 2013: The inquiry must be conducted in accordance with the principles of natural justice. Denying the respondent a copy of the complaint violates the right to a fair hearing. The Madras High Court has firmly held that any unwelcome actions or words causing discomfort to women at the workplace constitute sexual harassment under the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition, and Redressal) Act, 2013 (PoSH Act). Justice R.N. Manjula, delivering the judgment, quashed a Labour Court order that had set aside findings of an Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) in a case involving complaints of sexual harassment in a corporate environment.
Background of the Case The case involved allegations of inappropriate behavior by a senior employee against multiple female colleagues. Complaints included unwelcome physical gestures, intrusive questions, and remarks that caused the complainants discomfort and embarrassment. The allegations were investigated by the ICC, which found that the accused had violated workplace conduct standards and recommended several corrective measures, including: 1. Issuing a final warning. 2. Removing the accused from supervisory roles. 3. Limiting his assignments to domestic locations. 4. Suspending pay raises and related benefits for two years. For more details kindly click the below link: https://lawtrend.in/unwelcome-acts-or-words-making-women-uncomfortable-at-work-constitute-sexual-harassment-madras-high-court/ Courtesy: Law Trend 23 January 2025 Join Our Posh LinkedIn page: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/prevention-of-sexual-harassment-at-workplace-posh/?viewAsMember=true Follow PoSH at Work WhatsApp Channel by clicking the below link: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Va9OMCUCxoB4LQG1aV3A According to sources, the female guard has alleged that the chief security officer sexually harassed her and hurled casteist remarks when she went to meet him regarding her duty roster.
Representative image where the words 'Stop violence against women' can be seen Credit: iStock Photo New Delhi: A female guard at AIIMS-Delhi has accused its chief security officer of sexual harassment and caste discrimination, prompting the premier medical institute to initiate a probe into the allegations. Ola driver is employee, POSH Act applicable: Karnataka High Court on Sexual Harassment Case10/2/2024 The petitioner woman had questioned the stand taken by the Internal Complaint Committee (ICC) of ANI Technologies Pvt. Ltd (Ola) not taking action against the driver as laid down under the PoSH Act. Bengaluru: In a significant judgment, the Karnataka High Court has held that under the provisions of the Sexual Harassment of Women at Work place (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013 (PoSH Act), a driver-subscriber is an ‘employee’ of the transport aggregator, Ola in the instant case.
Justice M G S Kamal passed this order while partly allowing the petition filed by a Bengaluru woman, who was harassed by a driver under the Ola platform. The petitioner woman had questioned the stand taken by the Internal Complaint Committee (ICC) oof ANI Technologies Pvt. Ltd (Ola) not taking action against the driver as laid down under the PoSH Act. Speaking to TNIE, a top official said that the two issues of tackling sexual harassment and drug menace were discussed in detail in a meeting chaired by Chief Secretary N Muruganandam. CHENNAI: The Tamil Nadu government on Monday directed all higher education institutes to ensure compliance under the Prevention of Sexual Harassment (POSH) Act and take proactive measures to tackle drug menace on campuses.
The instructions were given during a meeting chaired by Chief Secretary N Muruganandam, in the presence of DGP Shankar Jiwal, other senior police officers and secretaries of various departments, in the wake of the raids by Tambaram police on apartments near a private college in Potheri on Saturday, the sexual harassment incident at NIT-Tiruchy last week, and the child sexual abuse cases at a fake NCC camp in Krishnagiri district last month. Speaking to TNIE, a top official said that the two issues of tackling sexual harassment and drug menace were discussed in detail. |
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