Cabinet approves Bill for women’s protection at workplace

The Union Cabinet approved the Protection of Women against Sexual Harassment at Workplace Bill, 2010, that ensures a safe environment for women at work place, both in the public and private sectors, in the organised and unorganised sectors.The Bill, to be introduced in Parliament in the coming session beginning next week, will help in achieving gender empowerment and equality. Domestic help have, however, been kept out of the purview of the proposed law that also proposes a fine of Rs. 50,000 if found violating the provisions of the law.

The move will contribute to realisation of their right to gender equality, life and liberty, and equality in working conditions everywhere. The sense of security will improve women’s participation in work, resulting in their economic empowerment and inclusive growth.
The Bill proposes a definition of sexual harassment, as laid down by the Supreme Court in Vishaka vs State of Rajasthan (1997). Additionally, it recognises the promise or threat to a woman’s employment prospects or creation of hostile work environment as ‘sexual harassment’ at workplace and seeks to prohibit such acts.
It provides protection not only to women who are employed but also to any woman who enters the workplace as a client, customer, apprentice, daily wageworker, or in ad hoc capacity. Students, research scholars in colleges/universities and patients in hospitals have also been covered.