Prevention of Sexual Harassment at Workplace Policy

Scope

This policy covers employees and work-related interactions at the office, programme sites, schools, meetings, training, events, travel and digital workspaces. Punjabi Samvad applies respectful-conduct standards to every person, while the statutory process under the POSH Act protects an aggrieved woman as defined by that Act.

Sexual harassment

• Unwelcome physical contact or advances.
• A demand or request for a sexual favour.
• Sexually coloured remarks or messages.
• Display of sexual content.
• Other unwelcome verbal, non-verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature.

Complaint route

A workplace with 10 or more workers must constitute an Internal Committee under section 4 of the POSH Act. The district Local Committee receives complaints when the establishment has fewer than 10 workers or when the complaint concerns the employer. Punjabi Samvad will provide the current committee or district route on request and display the Internal Committee order when the threshold applies.

Process and protection

The committee handling the complaint follows the statutory procedure, time limits and confidentiality rules. Punjabi Samvad gives the committee access to records and witnesses, protects the complainant and participants from retaliation, and acts on lawful recommendations.

Immediate help

A person who faces immediate danger should contact emergency services or the police. A request for workplace support does not prevent a person from using any legal remedy.