Sensitization programme on “Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace Act, 2013” held

IMPHAL, Dec 8: A 1-Day Sensitization Programme on “Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013” was held today at the auditorium of the Directorate of Information and Public Relations, Niteiyapat Chutek, Keishampat.
The programme was jointly organised by Manipur State Commission for Women (MSCW) and Directorate of Information and Public Relation, Government of Manipur.
The programme was graced by dignitaries, including Thumlip Tiningpham Monsang, Chairperson, MSCW; Ngangom Uttam Singh, Director, IPR and MAHUD; W Phajatombi, Member Secretary, MSCW; MSCW Members Lourembam Dayabati and Sofia Mayon.
Speaking on the occasion, Thumlip Tiningpham stated that it is compulsory for both men and women to understand each other in sorting out any problem they faced.
“It is quite fortunate that this very department is not facing any issues related with sexual harassment at workplace, and if it happens to have such issues, then the complaint should be brought into the Internal Complaints Committee (ICC)”, she added.
Appreciating the dedication of the District Information Officers who joined the programme, Thumlip Tiningpham urged them to ensure the effective implementation of IC-related activities in their respective workplaces and emphasized the importance of being well-versed with the rights and provisions outlined under the Women Empowerment Act.
Ngangom Uttam Singh stated that the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013 has been implemented across all workplaces.
“When an affected person trusts and believes in the effective functioning of this Act, it ensures a sense of safety and protection in their life”, said the Director while emphasizing that everyone should recognise the Act as a powerful legal safeguard.
The Director noted that the public often find it more comfortable and convenient to submit their grievances to CSOs through the Local Centres (LCs) rather than approaching the Government Internal Committees(ICs).
He added that this trend may stem from a perceived difference in status among complainants.
He also urged all citizens to feel free and confident in reaching out to the Government ICs as well for the redressal of their grievances.
During the technical session, Thiyam Rajkishore Singh, Advocate, highlighted the provisions of the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013.
The technical session witnessed active participation from several DIOs, both in physical and virtual modes, along with officials and staff of the DIPR. DIPR