Hi team, our company comprises 350 employees, and we are required to establish a Women's Welfare Cell, as mandated for all private limited companies. What are the criteria for forming this cell, and how many members are required for it?
From India, Kozhikode
Acknowledge(0)
Amend(0)

Are you sure that we need to have a Women Welfare Cell in every establishment? Or do you mean a Committee for Prevention of Sexual Harassment of Women at workplace?
From India, Kannur
Acknowledge(0)
Amend(0)

Yes , committe for Prevention of Sexual Harassment of Women at workplace.
From India, Kozhikode
Acknowledge(0)
Amend(0)

It is mandatory that you should form a committee so that harassment against women can be prevented. There are a lot of trainers engaged in providing sessions on the formation of the committee, conduct of inquiries related to sexual harassment, and filing of various returns to the appropriate authorities. You will get inputs on it from this forum itself.

Internal Compliance Committee Requirements

The basic thing is that every establishment wherein at least 10 employees are working shall have an internal compliance committee. The committee will comprise six members: the Chairperson, four members of the establishment, and at least one person nominated from outside who shall be a known personality in the field of women's issues. The Chairperson and at least 50% of the members shall be women.

Protocol for Filing Complaints

There shall be a written protocol for filing complaints before the Committee, and the same shall be made known to all employees of the establishment. There should be a clear understanding of who all are covered and which extensions of the workplace will be covered. There are provisions in the Act for escalating the issues and/or filing appeals against the findings of the committee and filing annual returns to the appropriate authorities.

From India, Kannur
Acknowledge(0)
Amend(0)

Hi Alaka,

Our company comprises 350 employees, and we are required to establish a Women's Welfare Cell, as mandated for all private limited companies. What are the criteria for forming this cell, and how many members are required for it?

Establishing a Women's Welfare Cell

Establishing a Women's Welfare Cell is an important step towards creating a safe and inclusive workplace for women. The specific criteria and requirements for forming this cell may vary depending on the jurisdiction and local labor laws. In India, for example, under the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition, and Redressal) Act, 2013, it is mandatory for all private limited companies with 10 or more employees to establish an Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) or Women's Welfare Cell. The ICC or Women's Welfare Cell is responsible for addressing complaints of sexual harassment at the workplace.

General Steps and Requirements for Forming a Women's Welfare Cell

Minimum Number of Employees

Ensure that your company meets the minimum employee threshold as mandated by local laws. In India, this is typically 10 or more employees.

Constitution of the Cell

The Women's Welfare Cell should be constituted by the employer and should consist of:

- A Presiding Officer (who should be a woman employed at a senior level).
- At least two members from among the employees, who are committed to the cause of women, and have experience in social work or have legal knowledge.

Representation

The Women's Welfare Cell should ideally represent different levels and departments within the organization to ensure diversity and inclusivity.

Training

Members of the Women's Welfare Cell should be trained on the laws related to sexual harassment, the company's policy, and how to handle complaints.

Awareness Programs

The Women's Welfare Cell should conduct awareness programs and workshops on preventing sexual harassment.

Handling Complaints

The Cell should be equipped to handle complaints of sexual harassment in a sensitive and confidential manner. They should follow due process in conducting inquiries and taking necessary actions.

Reporting and Record Keeping

The Cell should maintain records of complaints, actions taken, and reports submitted to the management.

Annual Report

The Cell is required to submit an annual report to the employer, which should include details of the complaints received, actions taken, and any recommendations.

No Interference

The employer should not interfere with the functioning of the Women's Welfare Cell and should provide all necessary support and resources.

It's important to consult with legal experts or HR professionals in your specific jurisdiction to ensure compliance with local laws and regulations. They can provide you with the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding the formation and functioning of a Women's Welfare Cell in your company.

Thanks,

From India, Bangalore
Acknowledge(0)
Amend(0)

CiteHR is an AI-augmented HR knowledge and collaboration platform, enabling HR professionals to solve real-world challenges, validate decisions, and stay ahead through collective intelligence and machine-enhanced guidance. Join Our Platform.







Contact Us Privacy Policy Disclaimer Terms Of Service

All rights reserved @ 2025 CiteHR ®

All Copyright And Trademarks in Posts Held By Respective Owners.