You deserve safety. Not just physically, but emotionally, too.
Whether you’re new to the workforce or ten years in, one truth holds:
No one should feel unsafe, unheard, or disrespected at work.
And yet, many do.
Whispers in the hallway. Unwanted comments. Power plays that cross the line. Often brushed off as “harmless” or “not serious enough.”
But here’s the truth:
The law takes it seriously.
So should you.
The Law Has Your Back
In India, the workplace is legally required to be safe.
That includes protection from sexual harassment, intimidation, and toxic power dynamics.
Behind this is a powerful piece of legislation:
The Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013, better known as the POSH Act.
Despite the name, this law doesn’t just protect women, it sets the tone for a respectful workplace for everyone.
What Does “Safe” Actually Mean?
It means:
- No inappropriate jokes, messages, or comments
- No touching without consent
- No repeated, unwanted attention
- No threats tied to compliance (“Do this, or else…”)
- No hostile environments masked as “office culture”
What Are You Entitled To?
You’re not powerless. The law gives you:
🔹 The right to file a complaint — with zero retaliation
🔹 An Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) at your workplace
🔹 A fair, time-bound investigation
🔹 Confidentiality — your identity is protected
🔹 Support and resolution — not silence
And yes, interns, consultants, freelancers, and even remote workers are included.
Why Many Stay Silent
Let’s be honest: speaking up isn’t easy.
Fear of backlash. Fear of being labelled. Fear of losing the job.
But silence doesn’t protect you.
The law does.
Change starts when we know what’s not okay — and when we stop normalizing it.
Safety Creates Success
Companies with safe, respectful cultures don’t just avoid lawsuits—they retain talent, boost morale, and build trust. Employees bring their best selves to work when they know they won’t be judged, silenced, or harmed.
Let’s move past outdated ideas of workplace safety being just about spills and stairs.
Let’s include empathy. Inclusion. Listening. Accountability.
Because a safe workplace isn’t just a right. It’s a foundation for everything that follows.
To learn more about your rights in the workplace, explore this resource.