Government Strengthens Women Safety Through PoSH and Mission Shakti

The Central Government has prioritised women’s safety through legislative and policy measures, notably the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013. The law aims to safeguard women from workplace harassment and ensure effective mechanisms for prevention and redressal. It applies to all women irrespective of age, employment status, or sector, covering both organised and unorganised workplaces.

Key Provisions of the PoSH Act, 2013

The Act mandates employers to provide a safe working environment free from sexual harassment. Organisations with more than ten employees must constitute an Internal Committee to address complaints. For smaller establishments or cases involving employers, Local Committees are set up at the district level. The government is responsible for monitoring implementation and maintaining data on reported and resolved cases.

Mission Shakti and Support Mechanisms

Under the Mission Shakti scheme, the Government adopts a victim-centric approach to enhance women’s safety and empowerment. One Stop Centres, operational since 2015, provide integrated services including medical aid, legal assistance, shelter, and counselling. Currently, 926 centres are functional and have assisted over 13 lakh women. Women Help Desks have been established in more than 15,000 police stations to provide gender-sensitive support.

Helplines and Digital Platforms

Emergency support services such as Women Helpline-181 and ERSS-112 play a critical role in crisis response. The helpline has handled over 2.88 crore calls, assisting more than 99 lakh women. The Mission Shakti Portal, launched in January 2025, integrates services for rescue, protection, and rehabilitation. Additionally, the SHe-Box Portal offers a centralised platform for filing and tracking workplace harassment complaints.

Important Facts for Exams

• PoSH Act, 2013 mandates Internal Committees in workplaces with more than 10 employees.
• Local Committees are constituted at district level for smaller establishments.
• One Stop Centres provide integrated support services for women in distress.
• Women Helpline-181 and ERSS-112 offer emergency assistance nationwide.

Awareness and Institutional Support

Institutions such as the National Commission for Women and State bodies conduct awareness campaigns through workshops and media outreach. Employers are required to organise regular sensitisation programmes and training for Internal Committee members. These efforts aim to create informed workplaces and strengthen the overall ecosystem for women’s safety and dignity.