• SHTC
• 28 April 2025

Workplace Harassment Laws Every Woman Should Be Aware Of

Understand Your Rights, Protect Your Dignity, and Stay Empowered at Work

Women are still breaking down barriers and claiming their proper places in all industries in today's changing workplace. Nonetheless, workplace harassment is still a major problem. Knowing your legal rights is crucial for both your own safety and the empowerment of those going through similar difficulties.

This guide describes the main regulations pertaining to workplace harassment laws that all women should be aware of, as well as how to spot harassment and what to do if you witness or experience it.

 

What is harassment at work?
 

Any unwanted behavior, whether verbal, physical, or visual, that makes the workplace intimidating, hostile, or insulting is considered workplace harassment. Coworkers, managers, customers, or even outside vendors may be the source. Although anyone can become a victim, women frequently experience particular types of harassment related to power relations, gender, and appearance.

There are two main categories of harassment at work:

• Quid pro quo harassment: It is when a higher-up requests sexual favors in return for employment advantages.

• Hostile work environment: It is one in which offensive remarks or behavior are so commonplace that they make it difficult for employees to function comfortably.

What Are the Laws Prohibiting Harassment at Work?

The Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013 (POSH Act) is the most significant law pertaining to sexual harassment at work in India.

In order to give women a safe workplace and to make sure that any kind of sexual harassment is not accepted, this law was passed. It is applicable to all women in both the public and private sectors, irrespective of their age, rank, or work status.

Legal Protection Provisions of the Indian Penal Code (IPC)

In addition to the POSH Act, women who are harassed have considerable legal protection under the Indian Penal Code: 

Sexual harassment is punishable by up to three years in prison or a fine under Section 354A.

Section 354D: Section 354D criminalizes stalking, including cyberstalking, in the digital age. It criminalizes following a woman and monitoring her online activity without consent. Penalties range from 3 years to 5 years for first convictions, with the offense being cognizable and bailable for the first offense and cognizable and non-bailable for the second.

Section 509: This section punishes individuals who insult a woman's modesty through words, sounds, gestures, or objects, intruding her privacy, and causing her discomfort. Penalties include imprisonment for up to three years, fines, or both, with the offender being cognizable and bailable.

Section 506: Section 506 safeguards individuals from criminal intimidation, including threats, coercion, and attempts to compel through fear. It is crucial in workplace harassment cases, particularly where women are threatened. Punishment ranges from 2 years for simple intimidation to 7 years for grievous harm. Offenses can be non-cognizable or aggravated.

These clauses give women right & the ability to complain to the police in addition to seeking remedies at work through the LCC or ICC.
 

How Women's Rights Are Supported by POSH Training

POSH training is increasingly widely used by organizations to raise awareness, stop mishaps, and adhere to regulatory requirements. These trainings are crucial for creating secure work environments and guaranteeing each employee's legal protection.

POSH training benefits women:

• by assisting them in recognizing and reporting unwanted behavior.

• makes legal processes and complaint systems more understandable.

• encourages self-assurance to speak up fearlessly

• promotes consent, respect, and boundaries in the workplace culture

Employees and management are guaranteed to comprehend their responsibilities in preventing harassment and defending women's rights at work when they receive training from knowledgeable providers like SHTC POSH Training.

CONCLUSION:

The question, "What are the laws against workplace harassment?" ought to be well-known and not a secret any more. Every woman is entitled to an environment free from intimidation and harassment at work. To use that right, you must first understand the workplace harassement law.

Now is the moment to take action if your company hasn't held POSH awareness meetings or if you're not sure whether your workplace complies with regulations. Awareness is the first step toward legal protection, and action is the first step toward change.


Read More: https://www.shtc.co.in/blog/how-sexual-harassment-training-empowers-women-in-the-workplace
Read More: https://www.shtc.co.in/blog/top-10-workplace-safety-tips-for-women-against-sexual-harassment