“Sexual harassment remains a significant barrier preventing women from entering the workforce,” said Dr. Shailesh Kumar Chourasia, IAS, Commissioner (Power), Government of Manipur, at a sensitization programme on the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013. The event, organized by Manipur State Power Company Limited (MSPCL) at the Conference Hall, SLDC, Yurembam, focused on empowering women and ensuring safe workplaces.
Dr. Chourasia emphasized that women’s participation in Manipur’s workforce remains significantly lower compared to other regions due to social constraints and workplace harassment. He urged employees to familiarize themselves with the Vishaka Guidelines and stressed the importance of awareness regarding women’s rights.
Special Secretary (Power) Yumnam Robita, IAS, urged victims to report harassment immediately rather than waiting for escalation, emphasizing that fear of societal perception should not prevent them from speaking up. She also cautioned against misuse of the law, underscoring the need for a fair inquiry process.
Centre for Women Development President Ningthoujam Jeevanmala Devi highlighted the challenges faced by women in seeking justice, particularly in remote areas, and stressed the crucial role of the Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) in grievance redressal.
The event also featured a presentation by Assistant Professor of Law N. Brajakanta Singh on workplace harassment prevention. Additionally, MSPCL announced the reconstitution of its ICC, comprising five members, to ensure better grievance handling and protection for women employees.
