Women Safety Laws in India: PoSH Act and Mission Shakti Explained

PoSH Act 2013 and Government Initiatives for Women’s Workplace Safety

The Government of India has strengthened women’s safety through legal and policy interventions, notably the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace Act, 2013, ensuring protection, prevention and redressal mechanisms across workplaces.

Key Provisions of the PoSH Act, 2013

The Act mandates employers to provide a safe and harassment-free work environment for women across all sectors. Organisations employing more than ten individuals must establish an Internal Committee to handle complaints. For smaller workplaces or cases involving employers, Local Committees are constituted at the district level. The government oversees implementation and monitors reporting and resolution of cases.

Mission Shakti and Support Systems

Under the Mission Shakti initiative, a victim-centric framework has been developed to support women in distress. One Stop Centres, operational nationwide since 2015, provide integrated services such as medical care, legal aid, counselling and shelter. Over 900 centres are currently functional, assisting lakhs of beneficiaries. Women Help Desks at police stations further enhance access to gender-sensitive support.

Helplines and Digital Platforms

Emergency and digital support systems play a crucial role in ensuring timely assistance. Services like Women Helpline-181 and ERSS-112 provide immediate response during crises. The Mission Shakti Portal integrates multiple services related to rescue, protection and rehabilitation. Additionally, the SHe-Box platform enables women to file and track workplace harassment complaints through a centralised digital interface.

Awareness and Institutional Framework

Institutions such as the National Commission for Women and State Commissions conduct awareness programmes through workshops and outreach campaigns. Employers are required to organise regular sensitisation and training sessions, particularly for Internal Committee members, to ensure effective implementation of the law.

Exam-Focused Points

• PoSH Act, 2013 ensures safe workplace for women

• Internal Committee mandatory for >10 employees

• Local Committees at district level

• Mission Shakti provides integrated support services

• Helplines: 181 (Women), 112 (Emergency Response)

• SHe-Box: online complaint portal for workplace harassment