Bhubaneswar: Labour Commissioner, Odisha, Indramani Tripathy harped oon raising awareness among officers and staff about the crucial provisions of the Prevention of Sexual Harassment (POSH) Act.
Shri Tripathy chaired the Internal Committee in Office of Labour Commissioner, Odisha on 23 July and this proactive initiative underscores the commitment of the Labour Commissioner’s approach to ensuring the security, safety, and dignity of its female employees.
His remarks resonated with a strong emphasis on a proactive approach to the security and safety of women colleagues. Sri Tripathy advised all officers and staff to meticulously go through the POSH Act, underscoring that familiarity with the law is the first step towards its effective implementation.
Labour Commissioner stressed the importance of maintaining absolute decency at the workplace, recognizing that a respectful atmosphere is fundamental to a productive and harmonious office. His call to action was clear: it is the collective responsibility of every employee to contribute to creating a comfortable and safe work environment for their female colleagues. This proactive stance by the Labour Commissioner reflects a deep understanding that prevention is paramount and that a positive work culture can significantly mitigate risks.
Furthermore, Sri Tripathy made a crucial appeal to all women employees present. He specifically advised them to promptly bring to the notice of the Internal Committee any issue that affects their dignity. This direct encouragement serves to empower women in the workplace, assuring them that their concerns will be heard, taken seriously, and addressed with the utmost sensitivity and confidentiality. This open invitation for reporting is vital for the effective functioning of the Internal Committee and for ensuring that no instance of harassment goes unaddressed.
Anuradha Mohanty, an esteemed NGO Member of the Internal Committee, played a significant role in the proceedings. With clarity and insight, she shed light on the important provisions of the POSH Act. Her presentation delved into the definitions of sexual harassment, the responsibilities of both employers and employees, the detailed complaint mechanisms, and the protective measures enshrined in the legislation.
Smt. Mohanty emphasized that understanding these provisions is not merely about compliance but about cultivating a culture of respect, where every individual feels secure and valued. She highlighted the various forms sexual harassment can take, from physical and verbal acts to non-verbal cues and even implied suggestions, urging attendees to be vigilant and empathetic in their interactions. Her discourse served as a vital educational component, arming the staff with the knowledge necessary to identify, prevent, and address instances of harassment effectively.
The meeting concluded with a renewed sense of commitment among the attendees. By actively promoting awareness and fostering an environment of vigilance and respect, the Labour Commissioner’s office in Odisha is demonstrating its unwavering dedication to the security, safety, and overall well-being of its women colleagues.
This initiative is a testament to the belief that a truly inclusive workplace is one where every employee can perform their duties without fear, with dignity, and in an atmosphere of mutual respect.