PoSH complaints face barrier of retaliation, stigma: Survey

Panaji: A vast majority of employees view prevention of sexual harassment (PoSH) training as a compliance formality, with limited scope to make workplaces safer for women. The findings are part of a white paper released by Goa State Women's Self-Help Group Association president Sulakshana Sawant.

“Eighty per cent of participants viewed PoSH training as a compliance formality, with limited understanding of its scope and provisions. Fear of retaliation and stigma persist, preventing resolution of many complaints,” said the report prepared by Sarvam, an organisation that focuses on workplace safety.

It has conducted over 200 awareness sessions and sensitised over 4,500 individuals.

“While awareness of PoSH is growing, there is still a significant gap in understanding and application,” said Sarvam founder Ashwini Patwardhan.

“This white paper is a step toward creating workplaces that are truly inclusive.”

The report sheds light on the implementation of the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013, in the state, highlighting the gaps and proposing strategies to build safer workplaces.

“Smaller enterprises face challenges in implementing PoSH measures due to limited resources and awareness,” said the report and recommended that organisations must strengthen internal complaint committees (ICCs) for better support and effectiveness.

Incidentally, Supreme Court on Friday heard a petition seeking to strengthen the investigation mechanism to probe sexual harassment complaints faced by women at private workplaces.

It had earlier ordered a survey to be conducted across India to identify organisations that were yet to set up ICCs. Regular audits and reviews of compliance measures can help improve understanding of what constitutes workplace harassment and complaint redressal mechanisms. The Sarvam report was released at an event organised by the Goa Chamber of Commerce and Industry.


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