Statement by India on Panel Discussion on Violence against women in the world of work in the 41stSession of the Human Rights Council ( 24 June – 12 July 2019),
Permanent Mission of India, (Geneva, 27th June 2019)
Mr. President,
India welcomes the convening of this panel discussion. The topic of discussion is very relevant and important for all of us.
2. Violence against women in the work place is one of the most pervasive and prevalent forms of abuse of human rights. We feel that combating discrimination and violence against women at work is an integral part of gender equality and women’s empowerment process.
3. First and foremost, ensuring accountability would be key for combating violence against women at work. The Indian criminal law has been amended to broaden the definition of sexual assault and harassment and increase penalties for offenders in 2013. The amendment also envisages greater accountability of public officials in providing relief to women affected by violence. An enabling environment at the work place is also essential. The Sexual Harassment of Women at Work Place Act 2013 of India aims to ensure safety and security of women at workplaces and the Government of India is working towards its effective implementation.
4. Awareness and training are important components for the effective implementation of acts and laws. Towards this, a handbook which is in the form of easy-to-use practical manner is made available while leading business organisations and private organizations of India have been involved to ensure effective implementation of the Act amongst their members in private sector entities. Various institutions/organisations equipped to conduct training programs/workshops on the act has been empanelled and a training module has been prepared to build the capacities of government officials on the provisions of the Act and develop in them professional competence to implement the same.
5. The Draft National Policy for Women, 2017 envisages continuous efforts to holistically address all forms of violence against women, while recognising multiple vulnerabilities faced by women from marginalized groups. To combat violence in digital space, Central Reporting Mechanism is being created to work as a hotline for anyone to report cyber-crime.
Thank you, Mr. President.
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