I faced sexual harassment at my workplace in Rohtak and the Internal Committee did nothing, what legal options do I have?

Detailed Legal Analysis

If the Internal Committee (IC) at your workplace in Rohtak has not taken action regarding your complaint of sexual harassment, you have several legal options available to address the issue.

Under the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013, you can pursue the following steps:

• File a Complaint with the Local Complaints Committee (LCC):
  • If the Internal Committee is unable or unwilling to act, you can escalate the matter to the Local Complaints Committee set up by the district authorities as per Section 6 of the Act.
  • The LCC is mandated to investigate complaints where the workplace has less than 10 employees or if the complaint is against the employer.
• Approach the Police:
  • If the harassment involves criminal actions such as stalking, physical assault, or threats, you can file a First Information Report (FIR) under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), such as Section 354 (Assault or criminal force to woman with intent to outrage her modesty) or Section 509 (Word, gesture or act intended to insult the modesty of a woman).
• Seek Legal Recourse:
  • You have the right to file a civil suit for damages against the employer for failing to provide a safe working environment as mandated by the Act.
  • Consult a lawyer specializing in employment law or women’s rights to understand your options for pursuing civil action.
• Contact NGOs and Advocacy Groups:
  • Various non-governmental organizations (NGOs) offer support and guidance for victims of sexual harassment. They can assist you in navigating the legal process.

It is crucial to document all incidents of harassment and maintain records of your complaints to the Internal Committee and any other correspondence related to the matter. This documentation can support your case in any legal proceedings you may pursue.

Finally, remember that you are protected under the law, and there are mechanisms in place to ensure that your grievances are addressed appropriately.