PoSH stands for the "Prevention of Sexual Harassment at Workplace (Protection, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013," a landmark legislation in India aimed at preventing and addressing sexual harassment in the workplace.
Key Aspects of the PoSH Act:
Purpose:
To protect women from sexual harassment at the workplace and provide a mechanism for redressal of complaints.
Scope :
The Act applies to all workplaces, including government, private, and non-governmental organizations, with 10 or more employees.
Internal Committee (IC) :
Organizations with 10 or more employees are required to establish an Internal Committee (IC) to address sexual harassment complaints.
IC Composition:
The IC must consist of a presiding officer (who must be a woman), at least two members from employees, and one external member.
Gender Neutral Policies:
While the PoSH Act protects women, there is an increasing trend of organizations formulating gender-neutral policies, allowing individuals of any gender to file complaints.
Training:
Organizations are required to conduct regular training and awareness programs for employees on the PoSH Act and related issues.
Reporting:
Organizations are required to submit annual reports to the employer and the District officer.
Redressal:
The Act provides a mechanism for filing complaints and for the redressal of complaints of sexual harassment.
Penalties:
Non-compliance with the PoSH Act can lead to penalties, including fines and other legal repercussions.
Compliance :
Organizations must formulate a policy against sexual harassment, conduct awareness and sensitization programs, and ensure proper redressal mechanisms.
PoSH Compliance Audit:
On company’s demand