Karnataka Women's Commission Issues Stern Warning to Employers Over ICC Mandate
In a significant move to bolster workplace safety for women, Karnataka State Commission for Women (KSCW) chairperson Nagalakshmi Choudhary issued a firm warning on Friday. She declared that strict action will be taken against employers who fail to establish an Internal Complaints Committee (ICC), which is legally mandatory in all workplaces employing more than ten individuals.
Review Meeting Highlights Compliance Gaps
Speaking to reporters in Mysuru following a comprehensive review meeting at the regional commissioner's office, Nagalakshmi revealed that the commission had recently received two specific complaints of workplace harassment. She directed labour department officials to investigate these matters thoroughly and implement necessary corrective measures.
One particularly distressing case involved a woman employee who had been recognized as the 'best employee' for four consecutive years. After she filed a complaint against a colleague, she became the target of systematic harassment. Additionally, her salary payments were deliberately delayed, compounding her professional distress.
Mandatory ICC Structure and Requirements
Nagalakshmi elaborated on the legal framework governing ICCs, emphasizing their critical role. "The Internal Complaints Committee is a statutory body that must comprise at least 50% women members and be chaired by a senior woman employee," she explained.
The mandate extends across all institutions, including:
- Corporate establishments and offices
- Hotels, resorts, and homestays
- Restaurants and hospitality venues
- All other formal workplaces
These committees are required to convene meetings every three months to review and address any instances of workplace harassment. District Commissioners have been explicitly instructed to initiate proceedings against employers who have neglected to form these essential committees.
Enhanced Safety Measures for Educational Hostels
Addressing another pressing concern, Nagalakshmi highlighted new protocols following a troubling incident where a class 9 student delivered a baby boy in a hostel. In response, mandatory health check-ups for all girl inmates have been instituted. Girls' hostels attached to high schools must now conduct comprehensive medical examinations every three months, a regulation that all hostel authorities are compelled to follow stringently.
The commission, during its Friday review session, processed a total of 150 complaints, underscoring the volume and urgency of issues facing women across the state.
Police Department Initiatives for Women's Safety
During a public hearing at Chamundeshwari Hall, Nagalakshmi stressed the imperative for women to be treated with dignity and respect at police stations. She advocated for an environment where women feel confident and secure when approaching law enforcement, without any apprehension. "If they encounter inappropriate behavior, they must promptly report it to senior officers," she urged.
She further noted that Prevention of Sexual Harassment (Posh) committees exist in both government and private institutions and should meet quarterly to monitor implementation and compliance.
Mysuru Police Commissioner Seema Latkar detailed the department's proactive measures for women's safety. "If girls face any form of harassment, they should immediately contact the nearest police station," she stated. The police department's 'Akka Pade' vehicle patrols are strategically deployed, primarily around colleges and identified trouble spots, to enhance protection.
Additionally, the 'Vimukti' initiative has been implemented to combat drug use and trafficking within Mysuru city. Commissioner Latkar reported a notable decrease in the city's crime rate since 2023, attributing this success to sustained efforts and community cooperation. She emphasized that public collaboration is essential to further prevent criminal activities and ensure a safer environment for all residents.
The meeting was attended by ADC P Shivaraju, marking a collective commitment to advancing women's welfare and safety across Karnataka.
