Orissa High Court Organises Awareness Programme On Prevention Of Sexual Harassment At Workplaces

An awareness programme on the provisions and implementation of the Sexual Harassment of Women at the Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013 (the 'POSH Act') and the Rules framed thereunder was conducted on Tuesday (April 07) in the Convention Hall for the employees of the Orissa High Court.

The programme was organized by the Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) constituted under the POSH Act for the High Court under the guidance of Justice Savitri Ratho, the Chairperson of the ICC.

The event was graced by the presence of Chief Justice Harish Tandon and other Judges of the High Court, whose august presence underscored the importance of ensuring a safe and dignified workplace for all.

The Chief Justice, while addressing the gathering, emphasized the significance of awareness, sensitivity and strict adherence to the provisions of the POSH Act, 2013. In his address, he highlighted the principles of gender justice and need to ensure that workplaces remain safe, secure and equitable for all employees.

Justice Savitri Ratho, in her Welcome address stressed on the need for fostering a respectful and inclusive work environment, free from discrimination and harassment. Participants were encouraged to actively contribute towards maintaining a culture of mutual respect and accountability within the institution.

Mrs. Mrunalini Padhi and Ms. Saswata Pattnaik, Advocates and Members of the ICC, highlighted the sole objective of such programme in educating employees about their rights and responsibilities, mechanism for redressal, and the role of the ICC in addressing the complaints of workplace harassment.

The programme concluded with an interactive session, allowing participants to seek clarifications and engage in meaningful discussions followed by demonstration by Technical Assistants on filing complaints on the ICC Portal. There was also screening of a short video on the POSH Act, 2013.

The event was duly coordinated by Dr. Bhagyalaxmi Rath, Registrar General of the High Court.