Creating A Harassment-Free Work Culture For Women: Discussing The Impact Of Posh Act On Women

Saatvik, Vivekananda Institute of Professional Studies, GGSIPU.

ABSTRACT

This article provides an overview of the Prevention of Sexual Harassment (POSH) Act1.It dives deep into the concept of sexual harassment in the workplace and its impact on women. The article emphasizes the importance of a harassment-free culture in the workplace. It explores the key provisions of the POSH act and the responsibilities employers bear in upholding its principles. It also discusses how the act has positively impacted female employees.

Sexual harassment poses a significant threat to women's fundamental rights to equality and dignity. It not only perpetuates sex-based discrimination within the workplace but also creates hostile conditions that impede women’s ability to work. This article aims to provide an overview of the Prevention of Sexual Harassment (POSH) Act, 20132 which focuses on prevention, prohibition and redressal of the issue. It explores the definition of sexual harassment under the POSH act and identifies what constitutes sexual harassment at workplace. The article delves into the adverse effects of sexual harassment on women’s mental, physical and emotional well- being, emphasizing how its consequences invade every aspect of their lives, both professionally and personally. The article highlights the significance of fostering a harassment-free culture to ensure women’s safety, well-being and equal participation in the workforce. It elucidates the key provisions of the POSH act and the responsibilities employers are entrusted with under this legislation. Lastly, the article examines the tangible impact of the POSH act on female employees, as it has provided them with are porting and grievance redressal mechanism, thereby ensuring a safer and more dignified work environment for them.

Keywords: workplace sexual harassment, POSH act provisions, employers’ responsibilities, impact on working women, harassment-free work environment, women empowerment.