19 May 2018
Globally, the ‘MeToo’ movement created a huge impact and brought to the world’s attention the importance of protection of women against sexual harassment, especially at workplace.
The Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013 (“Act”) is one of the most important legislations for women and we cannot stress on its importance enough at any workplace. But it takes a controversial example to curtail the rest. In the wake of all the confusion, lets take a quick insight at how exactly can start-ups and small businesses implement the Act at their workplaces. With the Act, the Central Government also notified the supporting rules - The Sexual Harassment Of Women At Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition And Redressal) Rules, 2013 simultaneously for ease.
In essence, if you have any contractual obligation towards your employees, you come under the ambit of the Act.
These members shall be nominated by the employer. One-half of total members should be women. The Internal Committee was erstwhile called Internal Complaints Committee before amendment of the Act vide the Repealing and Amending Act, 2016.
Yes, if your organization has more than 10 employees.
The victim can complain to the Local Committee (erstwhile called Local Complaints Committee before amendment under the Repealing and Amending Act, 2016) formed by the Government for each district pursuant to the Act. Any complaint against the employer himself can be taken to the Local Committee.
An employer who falls within the requirements of the POSH Act and has to appoint an Internal Committee, is required to submit an annual report to the local District Officer, for each calendar year. The Report much contain the details of the Complaints received, the actions taken, number of pending complaints and resolved complaints and awareness workshops held by the organization.
Contravention and non-compliance on part of the employer shall be punishable with fine, which may extend to Rs. 50,000/- and cancellation of license to do business (in case of repetition).
Any woman can make a complaint to the Internal Committee or the Local Committee in the absence of it within 3 months of the incident. This right is also extended to her legal heirs or any person as prescribed.
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