Amritsar (Suraj Kamlesh): The POSH Act Awareness Programme was organized by the Amritsar Municipal Corporation and Larsen & Toubro for officials and employees working on the Amritsar Bulk Water Supply Scheme Project.
Moreover, the programme focused on creating safer workplaces by raising awareness about gender-based violence and the legal provisions of the Prevention of Sexual Harassment (POSH) Act.
Experts Stress Respect and Gender Sensitivity
Prof. Dr. Roopan Dhillon, Head of the Department of Psychology at Guru Nanak Dev University, addressed the participants during the event.
She urged both men and women to treat each other with dignity, respect, and sensitivity. She explained that outdated social attitudes continue to contribute to gender-based violence despite changing times.
Furthermore, she emphasized that such incidents occur not only in homes but also in workplaces. Therefore, she encouraged employees to report every case of harassment or violence without delay.
POSH Act Protects Every Employee
Speaking during the POSH Act Awareness Programme, Prof. Dr. Rachna Sharma explained that the POSH Act protects every employee, including permanent staff, contractual workers, interns, temporary employees, and domestic workers.
She said employers with ten or more employees must establish an Internal Committee to handle complaints of workplace sexual harassment.
Additionally, organizations must educate employees about the POSH Act and maintain complete confidentiality while investigating complaints.
Complaint Process Explained
Dr. Rachna Sharma informed participants that employees should file complaints within three months of an incident.
She also explained that the Internal Committee must complete its investigation within 90 days.
If a victim cannot file a complaint because of physical or mental health reasons, a relative, friend, colleague, Women’s Commission official, or another informed person may submit the complaint after obtaining the victim’s written consent.
Awareness Programmes Promote Safer Workplaces
The POSH Act Awareness Programme highlighted the importance of workplace ethics, legal awareness, and mutual respect.
Moreover, the speakers advised male employees to remain mindful of their behaviour toward women and contribute to a safe and inclusive working environment.
Such awareness programmes help organizations strengthen workplace policies while encouraging employees to report misconduct without fear.
Conclusion
The POSH Act Awareness Programme organized by the Amritsar Municipal Corporation and Larsen & Toubro reinforced the importance of workplace safety, gender equality, and legal awareness. By educating employees about the POSH Act, complaint procedures, and employer responsibilities, the programme aimed to build a more respectful, secure, and inclusive workplace for everyone.
Key Points of the news:
- Amritsar Municipal Corporation and L&T organized a POSH Act Awareness Programme.
- Experts discussed gender-based violence and workplace safety.
- Employees learned about their rights under the POSH Act.
- Speakers highlighted employers’ legal responsibilities to prevent workplace harassment.
- Participants received guidance on complaint procedures and maintaining confidentiality.
