POSH Act and Safe Workplaces for Women: What Employers Must Do
Women join and stay in the workforce when they feel safe and respected at work. The POSH Act gives every employer clear duties — and a chance to build a culture where women can grow without fear.
Safety is the foundation
Many women, especially from small towns and villages, leave jobs not because of the work but because they do not feel safe. A workplace that prevents harassment and responds fairly to complaints keeps talent and earns trust.
What the law requires
The Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013 requires employers with 10 or more employees to form an Internal Committee, adopt a policy, act on complaints within set timelines and file an annual report. Smaller workplaces are covered by the district Local Committee.
Beyond compliance
- Leaders should speak openly about zero tolerance
- Train every employee, not just the committee
- Make it easy and safe to raise concerns
- Protect complainants from retaliation
Small businesses matter too
Shops, clinics, schools and small offices employ many women. Even a small employer can display the policy, name a trusted contact and follow the law.
A shared responsibility
Safe workplaces need employers, employees, families and communities to work together. When women are safe at work, families and economies both grow.
Maya's takeaway
A safe workplace is not a favour to women — it is the basic condition for their growth. Every employer, big or small, can start today.
Frequently asked questions
Does the POSH Act apply to small businesses?
Workplaces with 10 or more employees must form an Internal Committee; smaller ones are covered by the Local Committee.
Who can complain?
Any woman at the workplace, including employees, interns, visitors and contract workers.
What is the SHe-Box?
An online complaint portal of the Ministry of Women and Child Development.
Sources
This article is general information and a leadership perspective. It is not legal, financial, tax, medical or investment advice. Please consult a qualified professional for your situation. Facts and figures are taken from the public sources listed above and may change.
Maya Godara
Co-Founder & Managing Director, ATTPL HOLDCO / ATTPL GROUP, Jaipur, Rajasthan, India.
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