Bangalore: KE holds talk on sexual harassment of women at workplace

Media Release

Bangalore, Feb 17: Kanara Entrepreneurs - KE - Bangalore, organized a talk on 'Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act 2013' for its members. The programme was held at The Grand Magrath Hotel, Bangalore.

Robinson D’Souza, lead member and past president of KE Bangalore, spoke on this newly enacted legislation that seeks to prevent sexual harassment at the workplace.

The legislation gives protection to all women, regardless of their age or employment status, and more importantly, extends it to the customers, clients or domestic workers. It covers a wide range of offences, including implied or explicit promise or threat to a woman's employment prospects or creation of hostile work environment or humiliating treatment, which can affect her health or safety.

Robinson D'Souza said the the law applies even if there is only one woman worker. He shared a few examples of what could be construed as sexual harassment.

He also discussed as to how the redressal mechanism provided in the Act could be implemented. The Act also provides protection against false or malicious complaints and evidence.

He also mentioned that the significant monetary penalties are applicable in case of violation of duties of the employer, including even the cancellation of license / registration.

He concluded his presentation by reiterating the duty of the employer towards employees. He emphasized the need to maintain awareness and conduct regular training workshops to all employees.
 
The meeting started with a welcome address by president Mark D’Souza. George Timothy proposed the vote of thanks. The programme was ably compered by Adrian D'Souza.