We live in an unfortunate era where sexual harassment has become so rampant, that it plagues workplaces as well. It has increased so much that statistics show every one in four women being sexually harassed at their workplace. It is not just women, but also men who have faced such harassment time and again. The effect of such continuing behaviour is inclusive but not limited to absenteeism, poor morale, loss of focus, conflict and boycotting amongst colleagues, and much more. It is pertinent that such behaviour stop, which is why the Sexual Harassment of women (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal)Act was passed in 2013.
Oneof the major issues present is that of identification. Persons who are victims of such behaviour fail to identify such behaviour as an offence. This is why corporations have taken the initiative to conduct Prevention of Sexual Harassment (POSH) workshops for their employees, to help in creating a healthier work environment. As per the guidelines that were issued in Vishakhaand ors. vs. State of Rajasthan,sexual harassment need not involve a physical contact. “Any act that creates a hostile work environment—be it by virtue of cracking lewd jokes, verbal abuse, circulating lewd rumours etc.counts as sexual harassment,” as per the guidelines. The government has made it a mandate for all companies to follow and propagate these guidelines. Every company nowadays has brought a major policy change for their company and has also employed outside sources to conduct workshops for every employee to create awareness and prevent sexual harassment.
Enhelion, in partnership with Scriboard Advocates and Legal Consultants has created a “Certificate course of Prevention of Sexual Harassment at the workplace”which helps law students and professionals gain an in-depth knowledge on the subject while adding another feather in their crown.