A one-day sensitization programme on the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013 was conducted today at the Auditorium of the Directorate of Information and Public Relations, Nityaipat Chuthek, Imphal West. The event was jointly organised by the Manipur State Commission for Women (MSCW) and the Directorate of Information and Public Relations to enhance awareness of workplace safety mechanisms.
MSCW Chairperson Thumlip Tiningpham Monsang emphasized the importance of mutual understanding between men and women while dealing with workplace concerns. She noted that although the department has not reported any cases of sexual harassment so far, any such grievances must be promptly submitted to the Internal Complaints Committee (ICC). She also called on district-level officials joining online and offline to ensure the effective functioning of ICCs and remain well informed about women’s rights and legal protections.
Director of IPR and MAHUD, Ngangom Uttam Singh, highlighted that the 2013 Act is applicable across all workplaces and serves as a crucial legal safeguard for women. He reiterated that every government office and institution must establish an ICC, chaired by the senior-most woman officer, and stressed the need for unorganised sectors and private firms to comply with the requirement as well.
He observed that many individuals feel more comfortable submitting complaints through civil society groups rather than government committees, possibly due to perceived differences in status. He urged citizens to approach government internal committees with confidence whenever redressal is needed.
In her keynote address, Member Secretary of MSCW, W. Phajatombi, outlined the Commission’s core responsibilities and the legal basis of its work. She encouraged all participants to fully understand the mechanisms available for addressing violations and stressed the importance of knowing how and where to file complaints. She also asked participants to keep themselves updated on the functioning of ICCs and to submit annual reports to the Director in a timely manner.
The technical session, led by advocate Thiyam Rajkishore Singh, focused on key provisions of the 2013 Act. He explained that cases of workplace harassment can involve individuals of any gender and that violators are subject to strict disciplinary action based on the facts of each complaint.
The programme saw active participation from district information officers, both in person and online, along with officials and staff of the Directorate. MSCW Members Lourembam Dayabati and Sofia Mayon were also present as presidium members.
