Facing Harassment at Work: How Can I Escalate When HR Isn't Responding?

Hi All,

I am working in the BPO sector in Bangalore. I have been harassed by my line manager and his manager for the last six months. I lodged a complaint with our HR spokesperson and provided detailed information. He assured me that action would be taken on this issue.

However, for the past two months, no action has been taken despite my regular follow-ups. Please suggest how I can escalate this to a higher level or if I should approach the court.

Thanks,
Sam

From your post, it is not clear as to what kind of harassment you have been facing. If you critically analyze a case, it may be concluded that the act by the superior may not be an act of harassment, although for the aggrieved, it felt like harassment. If you have a grievance handling committee, it would be better if you lodge a complaint with that committee. It is not necessary for the HR person to be a part of it, though in many cases, it functions under the Personnel department. Taking the matter outside the premises of the establishment (that is, to court) will be unfair. Therefore, value the situation and present the matter before the committee.

Regards,
Madhu.T.K

Hi Madhu,

It is workplace harassment. Examples are:

1) Using unparliamentary words at the workplace.
2) Always forcing me to give a resignation letter.
3) Impractical work allocation.
4) Plan leaves are also not approving.
5) Always giving bad comments to me whenever I write about my performance.

It has been two months since I filed a complaint against my supervisor and his manager. Still, they haven't responded. A couple of days ago, I approached the HR spokesperson about my complaint, and they replied that the matter has been discussed at a senior level. I feel like they are playing games with me, not disclosing the decision, and finding other reasons to force me to resign from my job. Today, the HR spokesperson clearly stated that I have to resign by the end of the day, or the company will terminate me. However, I informed them that I will escalate the issue to the management and seek legal action.

Help me with this issue.

Thank you.

In workplace harassment, if your grievances are not redressed properly, you can represent them before the Board of Directors. If that also fails, please make a representation before the District Labour Officer. Let the Officer hold a meeting and decide on your matters. I hope you are not a member of any Trade Union, and if you are a member, it would be easier for you to get things done as well.

Regards,
Madhu.T.K