Falling in line after repeated diktats from the government and regulators, listed companies have stated making public some basic data of sexual harassment at workplace and the disclosed numbers show a disturbing uptick.
FMCG leader ITC Limited indicated 5 cases of sexual harassment in FY 2018-19.
“During the year, 5 complaints of sexual harassment were received out of which 3 have been resolved and 2 are in the process of resolution.”, company said in its Annual Report.
“ITC demands, demonstrates and promotes professional behaviour and respectful treatment of all employees.”, report said.
“To sensitise employees and enhance awareness, it is ensured that all employees undergo training through a specially designed module on prevention of sexual harassment at work place.”, report added.
“Processes and mechanisms are instituted to ensure that issues such as sexual harassment at work place, if any, are effectively addressed. ITC maintains an open door for reportees, encourages employees to report any harassment concerns and is responsive to employee complaints about harassment or other unwelcome and offensive conduct.”, company said.
“Workplace As a good corporate citizen, ITC is committed to a gender friendly workplace. It seeks to enhance equal opportunities for men and women, prevent, stop and redress sexual harassment at the workplace and institute good employment practices.”, it added.
Internal Complaints Committees have been constituted, in compliance with the requirements of the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013, in all ITC units to enquire into complaints and recommend appropriate action, wherever required.
In FY 2018-19, the Company employed 27,475 number of employees, out of which 2764 were female employees.
“It also ensures a work environment that is free from any form of discrimination among employees based on caste, religion, disability, gender, sexual orientation, race, colour, ancestry, marital status or affiliation with a political, religious or union organisation or majority/minority group. The policy has been communicated to all employees appropriately.”, report said.
During the year, 10,647 employees of the Company were members of unions. There were no cases of violation of norms related to Freedom of Association in this year, company said.
“Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013” provides protection against sexual harassment of women at workplace and the prevention and redressal of complaints of sexual harassment and matters related to it.
