The Supreme Court of India has issued a landmark directive requiring all workplaces with more than ten employees to establish Internal Complaints Committees (ICCs) under the Prevention of Sexual Harassment (POSH) Act, 2013. The move aims to close long-standing enforcement gaps and ensure complaints of sexual harassment are addressed promptly and fairly.
The ruling reinforces the framework originally set out in the Vishaka Guidelines of 1997 and reiterates the binding obligations under the POSH Act. In December 2024, the Court had flagged inconsistent implementation, especially in smaller organisations and regional offices. The latest order makes compliance mandatory and non-negotiable.
State-level action begins
Following the directive, state governments have begun taking steps. In Karnataka, labour authorities have started issuing compliance notices to firms employing more than ten staff, instructing them to form ICCs and submit proof of compliance to district officials. Businesses in districts such as Dharwad and Hubballi have been warned that delays or incomplete records will attract strict action.
Committee structure and responsibilities
Under the POSH Act, each ICC must be led by a senior woman employee and include at least two members with legal or social work expertise, along with one external member from an NGO or similar body. At least half of the members must be women. Committees are required to complete inquiries within 90 days, maintain confidentiality, and submit annual reports to district authorities.
By mandating ICCs across all qualifying workplaces, the Supreme Court has sent a strong message: workplace safety is a fundamental right. The order represents a decisive step toward embedding gender justice into everyday work culture.
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