What is the punishment for sexual harassment at the workplace in India?

Answer By law4u team

In India, sexual harassment at the workplace is addressed under the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013. The Act defines sexual harassment and outlines the procedures for the prevention and redressal of complaints related to sexual harassment at the workplace. The Act applies to all workplaces, whether in the public or private sector, and it covers women working as employees, including temporary, ad-hoc, or daily wage workers, as well as interns. Key points regarding the punishment for sexual harassment at the workplace in India: Internal Committee: The Act mandates the formation of an Internal Committee at the workplace to inquire into complaints of sexual harassment. Penalties for Employers: Employers failing to comply with the provisions of the Act, such as not constituting an Internal Committee, can be penalized. Penalties may include a monetary fine. Punishment for Sexual Harassment: If an inquiry establishes that an individual is guilty of sexual harassment, the employer must take action against the perpetrator, which may include: Warning. Imposition of penalties, such as a deduction from salary. Termination of employment. Criminal Offense: In addition to the workplace proceedings, certain acts of sexual harassment may also be treated as criminal offenses under the Indian Penal Code (IPC). The severity of punishment may depend on the nature and gravity of the offense. It's important to note that the punishment may vary based on the outcome of the inquiry, the severity of the offense, and whether it is treated as a workplace matter or a criminal offense. Employees who believe they have been subjected to sexual harassment at the workplace have the right to file a complaint with the Internal Committee or the Local Complaints Committee (in case the workplace has fewer than 10 employees or for workplaces in the unorganized sector).

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