The Union Cabinet is likely to take up the long--pending bill for protection of women against sexual harassment at workplace on Thursday.



Under the proposed legislation, women will have a forum to complain against harassment like physical contact, demand or requests for sexual favors, sexually colored remarks or even showing pornography. The legislation will apply to all organised and unorganised sectors and there is a penalty provision for employers who do not comply.



The ministry of women and child development that piloted the bill has also made provision for compensation for women that can be deducted from the guilty person''s salary. The penalty, if harassment is proved, will be levied keeping in view the victims mental suffering and trauma, income and financial status, medical expenses incurred and loss in career opportunity because of the incident. For the first time, a person giving a false complaint or evidence will be liable for punishment under service rules.



The bill will include sectors that have so far managed to stay out of the loop like the hospitality industry (including catering services and restaurants), NGOs, health services and coaching centers, domestic helps, and women working in tailoring centers or beauty parlors.



The bill also prohibits publication or making contents of the inquiry or the aggrieved woman''s details available. The employer will also be expected to provide a safe environment at the work place.







Regards,



Vinod Bidwaik

http://vinodtbidwaik.blogspot.com