NCW Issues Advisory to States, UTs for Strict Implementation of POSH Act

By Mahima Katal

New Delhi, June 19: The National Commission for Women (NCW) has issued an advisory to all States and Union Territories, urging the immediate and effective implementation of measures under the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013 (POSH Act).

The advisory aims to ensure that workplaces across the country—including government offices, private establishments, and entities in both organised and unorganised sectors—strictly comply with the provisions of the POSH Act and provide a safe, inclusive, and gender-sensitive environment for women employees.

According to the Commission, effective enforcement of the law is essential to prevent workplace harassment and strengthen mechanisms for redressal and accountability.

The advisory has been addressed to the Chief Secretaries and Directors General of Police (DGPs) of all States and Union Territories. In an effort to strengthen implementation at the grassroots level, the NCW has also circulated the advisory to District Magistrates, Senior Superintendents of Police (SSPs), and Commissioners of Police across the country.

The Commission emphasized the need for coordinated action by administrative and law enforcement authorities to ensure compliance with the POSH Act and to promote awareness about the rights and protections available to women in workplaces.

The POSH Act, enacted in 2013, mandates the establishment of Internal Committees in workplaces, provides mechanisms for addressing complaints of sexual harassment, and places responsibility on employers to create a safe working environment for women.

The NCW's latest advisory comes amid continued concerns over workplace safety and seeks to reinforce institutional accountability in preventing and addressing sexual harassment.