‘Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013’
The ‘Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013’ which was passed by both the houses of parliament has got Presidential assent and became an Act w.e.f. 23/04/2013.
The Act covers under it a list of offences, sexual remarks, demand for sexual favour, or any act of physical advance or an unwelcome touch. It is applicable to both organised and unorganised sectors even where the number of workers is less than 10, and includes domestic workers. It mandates an internal complaint committee for any organisation with 10 or more employees. Non-compliance would lead to penalty of 50,000/- (INR) and may lead to higher penalties and cancellation of licence or registration to conduct business in case of repeated violation. However, in the case of false or malicious complaint, the bill provides for action against the complainant in accordance with service rules and in any other manner in case no service rules exist. The Act covers not only employees, but also clients, customers, apprentice or daily wage workers.
