Workplace Harassment: How Can Employees Stand Up Against Abusive Seniors?

Hi,

Can anyone advise me on harassment (use of abusive words/impractical work allocation) at the workplace? Suppose an employee is harassed by her seniors, what steps can she take against them/him?

With regards,
Kaushika

Start keeping records of all conversations or instances where you encountered harassment. This documentation will come in handy whether you decide to lodge a case or not. Speak with the top management immediately. If they take action, that's great; otherwise, consider leaving the workplace and finding another job.

Surya

Dear Kaushika,

Train your managers on interpersonal skills. You need to create a policy on "Employee Grievances" and educate employees on how to utilize this policy. Let there be an impartial committee that investigates grievances and takes appropriate action against the defaulting managers. Once you implement these changes, grievances will decrease, and interpersonal relations within the company will improve.

Thanks,

Dinesh V Divekar

Kaushika,

Please refer to the Supreme Court guidelines in the "Visakha Case." Additionally, the National Council for Women has brought out a new bill regarding harassment in the workplace. Check their site as the bill is still in the draft stage.

Surya

Dear Kaushika,

Never allow others to lead you. Maintain some distance from the people you work with. Inform your top-level management if they show no interest in addressing the issue. If necessary, consider reaching out to the media to expose the institution's actions. This can bring attention to the matter within the wider society.

Thank you.

Oh, my God, Ma'am. You have every right to protect yourself from this barbarous activity. Already, there is a central act particularly for working women. Any boss or colleagues misbehave like moving fingers, double-mean dialogues, unnecessarily touching hands, all are strictly prohibited, with 2 years imprisonment and no bailable sections. Notified women also have job protection even after a complaint. So, go ahead, please.