InteLaw Consulting in association with 'Enhance and Excel' and 'Ungender' conducted a workshop on 17th September titled "i-POSH: How to conduct POSH Investigations?". The workshop received an overwhelming response from participants who represented diverse sectors including industry, law firms, banking, insurance, government, NGOs and independent professionals working in the field of women empowerment and prevention of sexual harassment in workplaces.

We often talk about the legal and compliance aspects of POSH, the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013, but the investigative process is equally relevant to understand the allegations, probe the misconduct, evidence and statements analysis, and presentation of the findings. Considering the rising cases of harassment, vulnerable atmosphere of co-working places, and the reputational issues associated with POSH complaints in the age of social media. HR Leaders-Founders, Directors and Owners of businesses‌-In house counsels and investigators-Ethics & Compliance personnel‌-Internal Committee members‌- Grievance redressal officers often have to deal with such complaints. The interactive session acted as the bridge to fill this knowledge gap.

Susan, one of the attendees stated, "The event was an eye-opening experience and listening to real-life examples of cases, especially the first hand narration of committee members, made the session even more interesting."

The session highlighted the definition of sexual harassment, legal and investigative aspects, demonstration of POSH complaint handling tools, e-learning module, short films, quiz and open house session. Noopur, a participant and WICC member, during an open house session, emphasized on the lack of timely POSH training in organizations, which could prevent sexual harassment by educating the employees as well as raising awareness on the implications of filing malicious complaints, and corporate governance of POSH.

The quote by Miya Yamanouchi rightfully expresses the interpretation of harrassment-

“Self respect by definition is a confidence and pride in knowing that your behavior is both honorable and dignified. When you harass or vilify someone, you not only disrespect them, but yourself also.

Street harassment, sexual violence, sexual harassment, gender-based violence and racism, are all acts committed by a person who in fact has no self respect. Respect yourself by respecting others.”