Definition & Overview
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POSH (Prevention of Sexual Harassment)
Key Takeaways
- Mandatory for organizations with 10+ employees.
- Requires an Internal Complaints Committee (ICC).
- Applies to all women employees (permanent, temporary, ad-hoc).
- Annual filing of returns is compulsory.
Why It Matters
Ensures a safe, inclusive, and legally compliant workplace environment.
Interactive Insight
Compliance Checklist
Ameena Abdurahiman
Subject Matter Expert (HR & Compliance)
Is ICC mandatory for all companies?
Yes, if you have 10 or more employees.
Who heads the ICC?
A senior-level female employee from the workplace.
Who can be the external member in an ICC?
A person from an NGO or a professional familiar with sexual harassment issues.
What is the legal definition of a 'workplace'?
It includes the office premises, any place visited for work (client sites), and even company-provided transport.
Can a man file a POSH complaint?
The POSH Act itself is gender-specific for women, but many companies have gender-neutral policies that follow similar procedures.
How long does a POSH inquiry take?
The inquiry must be completed within 90 days of receiving the complaint.
What are the penalties for non-compliance with POSH?
Fines up to ₹50,000 and, for repeated offenses, cancellation of the company's business license.
Is annual report filing mandatory for POSH?
Yes, companies must submit an annual report to the District Officer detailing the cases handled.
What if a POSH complaint is found to be false?
If the ICC concludes the complaint was malicious, the company can take disciplinary action against the complainant.
How often should awareness sessions be conducted?
At least once a year, though regular quarterly workshops are recommended for a healthy culture.
Suggested Questions
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