On 17th September 2024, the Internal Complaints (IC) Cell of the college organized an informative session on the “Prevention of Sexual Harassment at Workplace (POSH Act 2013)” in Hall 2, from 12.30 to 1.30 pm. This session was aimed at educating both teaching and non-teaching staff about the provisions of the POSH Act and the measures necessary to create a safe and respectful work environment.
The resource person for the session was Ms. Priyanka Parab, an Assistant Professor of Law at G.R. Kare College of Law, Margao, and an esteemed alumna of our college. Her expertise in law and her connection to the institution added great value to the discussion.
Ms. Priyanka began the session by introducing the POSH Act of 2013, highlighting its importance and the reasons behind its formulation. She referenced the Vishaka v. State of Rajasthan (1997) case, where the Supreme Court laid down guidelines to address the issue of workplace sexual harassment. The landmark Vishaka Guidelines formed the foundation for the POSH Act, which was later enacted to provide a comprehensive legal framework for the protection of women at the workplace.
The presentation covered critical aspects of sexual harassment, defining it as any unwelcome act or behavior of a sexual nature. Ms. Priyanka discussed various forms of harassment, including verbal, non-verbal, and physical acts, and emphasized that the behavior need not always be physical; comments, gestures, and visual content of a sexual nature also qualify as harassment.
The session further addressed the responsibilities of employers, which include constituting an Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) to handle complaints, displaying information about the ICC, conducting workshops to sensitize employees, and ensuring the safety and well-being of all staff.
Ms. Priyanka also explained the procedure for filing a complaint under the POSH Act, including the timeline and steps the ICC should follow when investigating complaints. She discussed the confidentiality of proceedings and the rights of both complainants and respondents during the inquiry process.
At the conclusion of the session, Ms. Priyanka shared case examples of workplace harassment, giving the attendees insight into the practical application of the law and the importance of addressing harassment with seriousness and sensitivity. These cases highlighted the legal recourse available to victims and underscored the need for vigilant and proactive measures to prevent harassment at the workplace.
The session was highly informative and engaging, leaving the 74 attendees (21 male, 53 female) with a clearer understanding of the legal provisions of the POSH Act and their role in maintaining a safe and respectful work environment.
Expected Outcome of the Activity:
Upon completion of the session, staff members will gain a clear understanding of the legal framework and provisions of the POSH Act, aimed at preventing and addressing workplace harassment. Participants will also learn the steps involved in filing a complaint with the Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) and the subsequent inquiry process. Additionally, the session will empower them to contribute to creating a respectful and harassment-free work environment by adhering to workplace policies and promoting awareness of these crucial measures.
