NCW calls for mandatory POSH audits, monitoring cells to strengthen workplace safety for Women

The National Commission for Women (NCW) on Friday issued a comprehensive advisory to all states and Union Territories, urging strict and uniform implementation of the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013, along with a series of new compliance and monitoring measures to enhance workplace safety.

The advisory recommends mandatory annual POSH audits for all establishments employing 10 or more persons, aimed at assessing legal compliance, functioning of Internal Committees, complaint disposal mechanisms, confidentiality safeguards and awareness initiatives. It also calls for the use of the SHe-Box platform to track workplace harassment complaints.

NCW chairperson Vijaya Rahatkar said the effective implementation of the POSH law is not only a legal requirement but also a collective responsibility to ensure women’s empowerment and equal participation in the workforce. She stressed that workplaces must be safe, respectful and inclusive environments.

States and UTs have been asked to establish dedicated POSH monitoring cells or digital compliance dashboards, and conduct periodic reviews at senior administrative levels. District authorities have also been directed to appoint nodal officers at multiple administrative levels to ensure timely grievance redressal and enforcement.

The advisory further mandates the constitution of Internal Committees in all organisations with at least 10 employees, ensuring proper representation, including 50% women members and an external expert. Local Committees will handle complaints from informal sector workers, domestic workers and employees in smaller establishments.

It also instructs institutions to display complaint procedures and contact details prominently, conduct regular awareness programmes, and ensure protection of complainants and witnesses from retaliation. Special emphasis has been placed on universities, hospitals, industrial units and other sensitive workplaces.

NCW said the initiative aims to move beyond compliance and build a culture of dignity, accountability and zero tolerance towards sexual harassment in workplaces across the country.