Supreme Court Guidelines on Sexual Harassment of Women Workers

The Hon’ble Supreme Court of India, in the case of writ petition No.666-70 of 1992 filed by Vishaka & Ors.Vs State of Rajasthan & Ors. has laid down certain guidelines for the prevention of sexual harassment of women employees in their work places. The Guidelines have the force of law under Article 141 of the Constitution of India. The guidelines provide a definition as to what constitutes sexual harassment and further provides for establishment of a mechanism for redressal of complaints.

• Pursuant to the judgment of the Hon’ble Supreme Court, The Ministry of Labour wrote to all the Central Ministries/Departments, the State Govts./U.Ts and CPSUs to implement the guidelines contained in the judgment in letter and spirit. the All India Services to the effect that sexual harassment at the work place constitutes a misconduct for which a Government Servant is liable for disciplinary action.