Act on complaints within two months, says state

Public and private firms in the state will now have to settle sexual harassment complaints within two months of receiving a grievance. “The idea is to see that such cases get expedited on priority and so it was necessary to put timelines to it,” said Vandana Krishna, secretary, woman and child welfare, in the order issued on October 4.

Public and private firms in the state will now have to settle sexual harassment complaints within two months of receiving a grievance. “The idea is to see that such cases get expedited on priority and so it was necessary to put timelines to it,” said Vandana Krishna, secretary, woman and child welfare, in the order issued on October 4.

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If a victim does not get justice at her workplace within this period, she can approach the state women’s complaints redressal committee.

Currently, women who face sexual harassment at work can get redressal as per Supreme Court guidelines, which make it compulsory for all organisations to form a women’s cell and enquiry panel to address such issues. The panel’s report is final and apart from being sacked, the guilty can face penal action.

The order will force firms to take quick steps — encouraging more victims to step forward — instead of a long-drawn enquiry.