State Pushes for Safer Workplaces, Stronger POSH Implementation: Dy CM Pravati Parida

Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government is taking strong steps to ensure safer and more respectful work environments for all employees, Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida said on Monday. She was addressing a large gathering of government staff at an orientation programme on the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013 — widely known as the POSH Act — held at the Lok Seva Bhavan Convention Centre.

Smt. Parida called on employees to break the silence around workplace harassment and to actively promote a culture of respect, equity, and accountability. “It is essential for every employee, irrespective of gender, to understand their rights and responsibilities under the POSH Act. Only then can we truly build dignified and secure workplaces,” she said.

Highlighting the government’s focus on gender-sensitive governance, she noted that strict directives have already been issued to all institutions and colleges in the state to establish Internal Committees as mandated under the Act. These committees are essential for promptly addressing complaints and ensuring justice through fair investigations.

She also warned against the misuse of the law, stating that while the government will ensure appropriate punishment for the guilty, individuals who lodge false complaints will also face consequences. “Fairness and accountability must go hand in hand,” she added.

Renowned lawyer and gender rights advocate Smt. Manasi Padhi led two detailed sessions on the POSH Act, explaining key legal provisions, reporting mechanisms, and the duties of employers and employees in maintaining harassment-free workplaces.

Also present at the event were Director of Women and Child Development Ms. Monisha Banerjee and other senior departmental officials. The programme aimed to equip government functionaries with the knowledge and tools to uphold safe, inclusive, and legally compliant workspaces.