November 2023

Conciliation is voluntary resolution without inquiry – only for mild cases, excluding monetary settlements. No apology coercion; complainant may withdraw anytime.

Employers must implement IC recommendations within 60 days. Non-compliance invites penalties up to ₹50,000 under Section 26 of the PoSH Act.

Part I explores foundational PoSH Act provisions: employer liabilities, IC constitution & civil-criminal law intersections shaping workplace harassment jurisprudence.

Indian employers must ensure disability-inclusive PoSH mechanisms: accessible reporting, sensory-friendly inquiries & awareness programmes accommodating neurodiverse employees.

The 2019 Act mandates non-discriminatory workplaces, requiring PoSH policies to explicitly protect transgender employees from harassment and ensure equal grievance redressal.

Respondents enjoy rights: receive complaint copy, adequate response time, impartial hearing, representation & appeal. Natural justice principles apply throughout proceedings.