Legal Framework for Workplace Safety
Women Safety Measures Through PoSH and Mission Shakti: The Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace Act, 2013 (PoSH Act) ensures protection against workplace harassment. It applies to all women regardless of age, employment status, or sector, including both organised and unorganised workplaces.
Employers must provide a safe working environment and take preventive measures. The law mandates the creation of mechanisms for complaint redressal and prevention.
Static GK fact: The PoSH Act, 2013 replaced the Vishaka Guidelines issued by the Supreme Court in 1997.
Key Provisions of PoSH Act
Organisations with more than 10 employees must form an Internal Committee (IC) to handle complaints. For smaller establishments, Local Committees (LCs) are constituted at the district level.
The government monitors implementation and maintains data on reported and resolved cases. Employers are also required to conduct awareness and training programmes.
Static GK Tip: The Vishaka Guidelines case was based on a petition filed after a workplace harassment incident in Rajasthan.
Mission Shakti and Institutional Support
The Mission Shakti scheme adopts a victim-centric approach for women’s safety and empowerment. It integrates various initiatives under a unified framework to provide comprehensive support.
One Stop Centres (OSCs), operational since 2015, offer services such as medical aid, legal assistance, counselling, and temporary shelter. Currently, 926 centres have supported over 13 lakh women.
Helplines and Digital Platforms
Emergency services like Women Helpline-181 and ERSS-112 ensure immediate assistance during crises. The helpline has handled over 2.88 crore calls, benefiting more than 99 lakh women.
The SHe-Box Portal provides a centralised system for filing workplace harassment complaints. The Mission Shakti Portal, launched in January 2025, integrates services related to rescue, protection, and rehabilitation.
Static GK fact: ERSS-112 is India’s unified emergency response number, similar to 911 in the USA.
Awareness and Capacity Building
Institutions such as the National Commission for Women (NCW) and State Commissions conduct awareness campaigns. These include workshops, media outreach, and sensitisation programmes.
Employers must train Internal Committee members and ensure employees are aware of their rights. This strengthens workplace culture and promotes gender equality and dignity.
Significance of the Measures
These initiatives enhance women’s safety, dignity, and participation in the workforce. They contribute to inclusive growth and align with constitutional principles of equality and justice.
By combining legislation with institutional support, the government aims to create a safe and empowering environment for women across India.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
Women Safety Measures Through PoSH and Mission Shakti:
| Topic | Detail |
| Law Name | Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace Act 2013 |
| Key Requirement | Internal Committee for organisations with more than 10 employees |
| District Mechanism | Local Committees |
| Major Scheme | Mission Shakti |
| Support Centres | One Stop Centres (since 2015) |
| Emergency Helpline | Women Helpline 181 |
| Unified Emergency Number | ERSS 112 |
| Digital Platform | SHe-Box Portal |
| Monitoring Body | National Commission for Women |
