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How to help a colleague facing workplace harassment

Q

I strongly believe that a colleague of mine is facing workplace harassment, but she seems hesitant to report the incident or seek help. I want to provide her with the necessary support and encourage her to come forward. Could you advise me on the best approach to handle this situation sensitively? I understand the importance of ensuring her well-being and contributing to a safe working environment, but I want to be mindful of her concerns and fears.

A

If you suspect or know that a colleague is being harassed at work , it is essential that you offer
support and take appropriate action to address the situation. To begin, encourage your co-worker
to document incidents of harassment, including dates, times, locations, people involved, and any
other pertinent information. If they decide to take formal action later, this documentation could
be critical evidence.

If your organization has more than ten employees, you must have an IC – Internal Committee in
place. Encourage your colleague to contact the ICC, which is in charge of handling workplace
harassment complaints. The ICC should include both internal and external members, such as a
presiding officer, an NGO representative, and other relevant individuals.

Your colleague should file a written complaint with the ICC, detailing the incidents of
harassment and providing supporting evidence if available. The ICC will launch an investigation
into the matter once the complaint is filed. If your colleague believes that the internal process
did not adequately address their complaint or if they wish to pursue legal action on their own,
they can file a complaint with the local police station. This legal action can be pursued only after
the case has been through the IC. In case the organisation has less than 10 employees or doesn’t
have an IC, she needs to file a complaint at Local Committee in the District Office.

– Mahalakshmi Rajagopal

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