Vishakha Guidelines
A series of rules called the Vishaka Guidelines was created with the goal of safeguarding women in the workplace. These were established in 1997 by the Indian Supreme Court. They specify the approach to be taken when handling incidents involving the sexual harassment of women and are essentially procedural in nature.
Characteristics of the Vishakha Guidelines
The Supreme Court's rules expand the definition of sexual harassment. Sexual harassment is defined as an undesired sexual decision that is meant to inflict any of the following, either explicitly or implicitly:
- Making physical touch or reaching out.
- A request or desire for sexual activity.
- Statements with a sexual undertone.
- Displaying explicit content.
- Any additional unwanted behavior, whether it be verbal, nonverbal, or physical.
- Make the workplace a safer place to work.
Every institution has the responsibility to create a secure work environment so that all employees can develop and thrive. This entails taking the necessary actions to safeguard the interests of female employees and making sure that no one engages in sexual harassment. In the event that an employer discovers evidence of sexual harassment or mistreatment of a female employee, appropriate disciplinary action must be done.
The guidelines stipulate that in the event that an employer's behavior against an employee becomes a criminal offense that is punishable by the Indian Penal Code, the employer is obligated to make a complaint. The employer must take the initiative and make sure the witnesses don't suffer any further abuse.
Committee for Redressal of Complaints
According to the recommendations, all organizations must establish a committee for redressal of complaints from employees in order to guarantee that these complaints are handled appropriately and that appropriate action is done in response.
Employer to support worker who experiences sexual harassment
An employer has an obligation to support an employee in any way they can if they are the victim of sexual harassment or abuse at the hands of a third party, as was the case with Bhanwari Devi.
According to the rules, businesses must support these victims and take preventative measures on behalf of their employees.
Employer's obligation to raise awareness
The employer bears the additional responsibility of educating the staff about issues related to sexual harassment and women's safety. This can be accomplished by informing the staff members about their rights, holding workshops, and coming up with other engaging ideas.
Government's obligation to expand the application of these regulations
In order to guarantee that the private sector is likewise bound by these standards, the guidelines also call on the federal government and state governments to enact the required laws. Women would benefit from this in terms of progress and prosperity, as would the country as a whole.