Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace: Legal Protection at a Glance

Sexual harassment at workplace undermines the dignity, safety, and well-being of women, posing a significant challenge to creating secure professional environments. In India, the introduction of the Protection of Women from Sexual Harassment at Workplace Act, 2013, marked a crucial step toward addressing this issue. This legislation provides a structured framework to prevent harassment, establish mechanisms for redressal, and safeguard women in their workplaces. This study evaluates the Act's effectiveness, examining the prevalence of workplace harassment, its impact on women, and the adequacy of existing grievance mechanisms. It further explores the responsibilities of employers in promoting a secure work environment, the performance of internal complaint committees, and the critical role of awareness campaigns in addressing harassment. The research also delves into the social, cultural, and institutional challenges that may hinder the successful implementation of the Act. By evaluating these factors, this study seeks to propose strategies for improving policies and practices to create safer and more inclusive workplaces for women in India.