Supreme Court Advocates for Childcare and Feeding Rooms in Public Spaces

Image
Supreme Court Advocates for Childcare and Feeding Rooms in Public Spaces The Supreme Court of India has suggested that the Union Government develop a comprehensive policy addressing the construction of feeding rooms and childcare facilities  in public places. This move aims to ensure that nursing mothers and their children can access basic amenities in a dignified and private manner, reinforcing their fundamental rights under the Indian Constitution. SC Encourages Policy Formulation A bench comprising Justice BV Nagarathna  and Justice N Kotiswar Singh  highlighted the absence of a structured framework to address this pressing issue. The court advised the Centre to propose a policy that could then be implemented across the states, scheduling the next hearing for December 10, 2024.   The apex court emphasized that before issuing formal directions, it was crucial to understand the Centre’s perspective on implementing the petitioner’s demand for childcare and feedi...
Post a Comment

Sexual Harassment in the Workplace: Laws, Prevention, and Progress in India

Sexual Harassment at the Workplace: Laws, Prevention, and Progress in India



Introduction


Sexual harassment in the workplace is a pervasive issue that undermines the dignity, safety, and well-being of individuals, particularly women. It encompasses unwelcome behavior of a sexual nature, including but not limited to physical advances, inappropriate remarks, gestures, or any conduct that creates a hostile or intimidating work environment. Recognizing its detrimental impact, laws and measures have been instituted globally to combat this menace, ensuring a safe and inclusive work environment for all.


Laws in India Dealing With Safety at Workplace


In India, the cornerstone legislation addressing sexual harassment at the workplace is the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition, and Redressal) Act, 2013. This act mandates the establishment of Internal Complaints Committees (ICCs) in workplaces employing ten or more individuals, tasked with addressing complaints of sexual harassment. It delineates a detailed procedure for filing complaints, conducting inquiries, and prescribing penalties for offenders.


Preventive Measures Need to be Taken


Prevention of sexual harassment demands a multifaceted approach, blending legal frameworks with proactive measures aimed at fostering a culture of respect, equality, and accountability. Education and awareness initiatives play a pivotal role in sensitizing employees and employers about what constitutes harassment, the grievance readdress mechanisms available, and the repercussions of such behavior. Training programs that emphasize gender sensitivity, communication skills, and ethical conduct can help create a conducive work environment.


Protective Measures Need to be Taken


Moreover, proactive measures to establish clear policies and codes of conduct regarding sexual harassment, coupled with regular training sessions, empower employees to recognize, report, and prevent instances of harassment. Encouraging open communication channels, providing support to victims, and ensuring confidentiality in handling complaints are crucial elements in creating a safe and supportive workplace culture.


In this modern era, technological advancements have also led to the introduction of anonymous reporting mechanisms, online training modules, and digital platforms for education and awareness. These tools enable wider reach, accessibility, and real-time reporting, reinforcing the commitment to a harassment-free workplace.


Ratio Decidendi


The Supreme Court of India has played a pivotal role in shaping the legal framework concerning sexual harassment. The landmark judgment in the Vishaka v. State of Rajasthan case (1997) was a watershed moment, laying down guidelines for preventing sexual harassment at workplaces until the enactment of the formal legislation in 2013. The Vishaka judgment provided the foundation for subsequent legal developments, emphasizing the employer's duty to prevent and address sexual harassment effectively.


Conclusion


In conclusion, eradicating sexual harassment in the workplace necessitates a concerted effort involving legal, educational, and cultural interventions. India's legal framework provides a robust foundation, but the onus lies on organizations to proactively implement preventive measures, foster a culture of respect, and empower individuals to report and address incidents of harassment. In this modern age, with evolving technology and awareness, the fight against sexual harassment demands ongoing commitment and adaptation to ensure workplaces remain safe, inclusive, and free from harassment.

Location: Pune, Maharashtra, India

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Supreme Court Reinforces Due Process: Curbing “Bulldozer Justice” with Strict Guidelines

Image
Supreme Court Reinforces Due Process: Curbing “Bulldozer Justice” with Strict Guidelines Background In a significant judgment, the Supreme Court of India has set out guidelines to curb arbitrary demolitions, commonly referred to as "bulldozer justice." This term has emerged from instances where properties of individuals accused of crimes have been demolished without following due legal process. The ruling responds to several petitions highlighting the destruction of residential and commercial properties without prior notice, which, according to petitioners, targets marginalized and minority communities. Key Principles Addressed The Supreme Court’s decision rests on critical constitutional principles, particularly the rule of law, separation of powers, and protection of individual rights . The Court emphasized that no person should be punished without due process and that arbitrary action by the executive undermines citizens’ trust in the justice system. Justice Gavai, in del...
Read more

Delhi High Court Grants Bail to Former Bank Manager Accused of Defrauding Woman of ₹13 Crores

Image
Delhi High Court Grants Bail to Former Bank Manager  Accused of Defrauding Woman of ₹13 Crores  The Delhi High Court has granted bail to Varun Vashista , a former bank manager accused of embezzling over ₹13 crores from a customer’s account while working at ICICI Bank's Vikas Puri branch. The bail was approved by Justice Amit Mahajan on November 12, 2024, after considering the evidence and facts of the case.   Details of the Case The allegations against Vashista stem from his role as a branch manager. The complainant and her husband had entrusted him with managing their investments, amounting to ₹13.5 crores, between 2019 and 2023.   The complainant discovered in January 2024 that nearly ₹12 crores had been **siphoned off** from her account. Key allegations include:   - Creation of Fake Fixed Deposits: The accused reportedly created fraudulent fixed deposit accounts in the complainant’s name.   - Misappropriation of Funds: Funds were tr...
Read more

Equality Before Law

Image
                            Equality Before Law                                                   Introduction The rule of law was firstly introduced by A.V. Dicey in  his book "The Constitution Of England" in which there is rule which only prevails is law in which all are equal. In simple word if any wrong is being done which is not justifiable  by law committed by anyone that may be president, prime minister, or any individual are punishable because there is supremacy of law. Supremacy of law means the government which is power or the people who elected the government all will be treated equally before law.  Article 14 The Indian Constitution 1949, Article 14 guarantees "Equality before law The State shall not deny to any person equality before the law or the...
Read more