In a progressive move towards ensuring the safety and dignity of women at workplaces, the Indian government launched the SHe-Box portal. This online platform is a significant step in the implementation of the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition, and Redressal) Act, 2013 (POSH Act).

What is the SHe-Box Portal?

The Sexual Harassment electronic Box (SHe-Box) is an online portal that provides a platform for women to register complaints of sexual harassment at their workplace. It is an initiative by the Ministry of Women and Child Development, Government of India.

Applicability

It is applicable to all establishments, both public and private sectors. The employers can register themselves with the She Box Portal for online complaint registration.

Additionally, the order directing the implementation of She Box portal also references the Supreme Court’s landmark judgment in the case of Aureliano Fernandes v. State of Goa, and highlights the implementation of key provisions of the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013 through the She Box Portal.

These directives also include:

1. Constitution of Internal Committees (ICs): The Supreme Court has directed that all organizations must constitute ICs to address complaints of sexual harassment. It is mandatory for employers employing 10 or more employees.
2. Orientation and Training: The Court has emphasized the need for regular orientation and training programs for members of ICs, as well as employees, to educate them about the provisions of the POSH Act and the rules and regulations.
3. Time-bound Inquiry: The Supreme Court has directed that inquiries into complaints of sexual harassment must be completed within a time-bound manner, ensuring that the principles of natural justice are adhered to.
4. Reporting and Disclosure: Organizations must ensure that all complaints of sexual harassment are reported and disclosed in accordance with the provisions of the POSH Act.

How to File a Complaint?

• Visit the SHe-Box portal: https://shebox.wcd.gov.in/
• Click on the “Register Your Complaint” tab.
• Fill in the required details, such as your name, email address, mobile number, and workplace details.
• Describe the incident of sexual harassment in detail.
• Submit the complaint.

Benefits of the SHe-Box Portal

• Easy access: The portal is accessible to all women, regardless of their location or work status.
• Confidentiality: The portal maintains the confidentiality of the complainant’s identity.
• Direct access to ICC: The complaints are directly sent to the ICC, ensuring prompt action.
• Tracking of complaints: The portal allows complainants to track the status of their complaints.

Conclusion

The SHe-Box portal is a welcome initiative by the government to ensure the safety and security of women at workplaces. It provides a platform for women to raise their voices against sexual harassment and seek justice. By providing easy access to justice, the SHe-Box portal empowers women and promotes a safe and secure work environment. The adoption of this notification by Delhi and Rajasthan, encouraging employer registration, demonstrates a growing commitment to its implementation and underscores the potential for nationwide adoption and impact.

Disclaimer:  This is an effort by Lexcomply.com, to contribute towards improving compliance management regime. User is advised not to construe this service as legal opinion and is advisable to take a view of subject experts.