Not every case of sexual harassment at the workplace needs to culminate in a formal inquiry. The POSH Act , 2013 recognizes that in some situations, the aggrieved woman may prefer a less adversarial resolution. This is where conciliation plays a role offering an opportunity to resolve the complaint amicably, provided certain safeguards are respected. For the Internal Committee (IC), conciliation is a delicate process that requires sensitivity, neutrality, and strict adherence to law. 1. When Conciliation Can Be Considered Conciliation is an option available only at the request of the complainant. The IC cannot suggest or impose conciliation on its own. The request must be made before the start of the formal inquiry process. This ensures that the complainant’s autonomy and comfort remain at the center of decision-making. 2. Prohibited Basis of Conciliation The law expressly forbids monetary settlement as the foundation of conciliation. This is a critical safeguard against misuse and exp...
In a landmark judgment, the Delhi High Court delivered a resounding verdict that extended the applicability of the Prevention of Sexual Harassment (POSH) Act to government organizations, including constitutional bodies like the Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG). The case of Saurabh Kumar Mallick v. Comptroller & Auditor General of India (2018) was a pivotal moment in ensuring that the principles of the POSH Act are upheld across all spheres of employment, irrespective of the nature or status of the organization. The Crux of the Case The case arose from a petition filed by Saurabh Kumar Mallick, an Assistant Audit Officer employed with the CAG, who alleged that he had been subjected to sexual harassment by a superior officer. Mallick claimed that despite filing a formal complaint, the CAG failed to take appropriate action or constitute an Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) as mandated by the POSH Act. The CAG, in its defense, argued that as a constitutional body, it w...