Bengaluru: Nagalakshmi Choudhary, Chairperson of the Karnataka State Commission for Women, has urged all institutions to mandatorily implement safety measures for women in the workplace. This call comes in response to a recent increase in incidents of sexual harassment, sexual abuse, and mental harassment against women in professional environments.
According to details received by The Chenab Times, Choudhary’s emphasis on robust safety protocols was made during the inauguration of a training and awareness program focused on the Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal of Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (POSH) Act. The program, organized by the Karnataka State Commission for Women and the Women and Child Development Department in Dharwad, highlighted the critical need for institutions to address and prevent such issues effectively.
Choudhary stressed that social development is intrinsically linked to providing women with a secure working environment. She lauded the Dharwad Police for their proactive women-friendly initiatives, stating that such measures significantly boost the morale of all individuals, particularly women. The Hubballi-Dharwad Police Commissioner, N. Shashikumar, noted that all government and private offices, as well as industries employing ten or more women, must compulsorily install a ‘She Box’ system to facilitate confidential complaint lodging.
The Chairperson also advocated for women to confront exploitation, sexual harassment, or injustice courageously and report such incidents to the authorities. She emphasized that senior officials bear the responsibility of paying close attention to the concerns, safety, and mental well-being of their women employees, ensuring no inconvenience is caused.
Choudhary further stated that women should not silently endure any form of injustice, harassment, or abuse. She asserted that protecting the dignity and safety of women is a collective responsibility of society. The POSH Act mandates that organizations with ten or more female employees must establish an internal complaints committee. Every workplace is obligated to provide a safe environment for women, and male employees are expected to learn appropriate conduct towards their female colleagues.
The commission’s efforts extend to addressing broader issues concerning women and children. Choudhary has previously directed all Deputy Commissioners across Karnataka’s districts to gather information on the security protocols adopted by educational institutions, following concerns over student safety. She also highlighted the disturbing trend of rising crimes against minors, noting that Dharwad district alone recorded 83 POCSO cases involving children under 18 in the last three years, with several cases involving child marriage, teenage pregnancy, and sexual assault leading to abortions due to social pressure.
During a visit to the Dharwad District Hospital, Choudhary commended the services and the commitment of doctors and healthcare staff, while also identifying areas for improvement such as staff shortages and the need for enhanced medical facilities. She assured that these concerns would be brought to the notice of the Karnataka government.
The initiative underscores a broader commitment to ensuring women’s safety and dignity across various spheres, from workplaces to educational institutions and healthcare facilities within the state.
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