Workplace Bullying by a Supervisor: Are There Legal Remedies Under Indian Labor Laws?

Dear All,

Is there any legal remedy available under Indian labor laws for workplace bullying by the supervisor?

Workplace Bullying and Harassment in India

Workplace bullying or harassment in the Indian context is considered an internal service matter for employees. An aggrieved employee may approach the HR department with proper proof of the harassment. Employers are obligated to investigate such matters under the provisions of the Industrial Standing Orders Act, 1946. If the harassment is perpetrated by the employer himself, the matter may be reported to the Labour Officer of the area. However, under such circumstances, it is advisable to consider resigning from the job.

Thanks,

Dinesh Divekar

In addition to what Mr. Divekar has mentioned, normally most of the organizations have an integral Labour Officer to tackle such cases. However, let us be clear that the primary role of such a Labour Officer is the settlement of labour disputes.

The BUB Standing Order Act is not applicable to all organizations. Even if applicable, the remedies under it are available only to workmen.