Report on the talk arranged by the ICC of University of Hyderabad on the advisory of UGC

The ICC (GS-CASH), University of Hyderabad, organized a talk on the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (PREVENTION, PROHIBITION AND REDRESSAL) ACT, 2013Act, 2013 to commemorate 10-years of PoSH Act, 2013.

The talk, titled ‘Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace – Provisions and Enforcement’, was delivered by Ms. Rachna Waddepalli, a distinguished Advocate practicing at the High Court of Judicature, Hyderabad, and the Supreme Court of India.

Ms. Waddepalli, also a Standing Counsel for Telangana Vaidya Vidhana Parishad, shared profound insights into the legal framework and enforcement mechanisms outlined in the PoSH Act. The event served as a crucial platform for education, dialogue, and collective efforts towards creating a workplace free from harassment and discrimination for women.

During the talk, Ms. Waddepalli lucidly demonstrated the nuances of sexual harassment, ensuring that every attendee, irrespective of their employment type, gained a clear understanding of what constitutes harassment. Importantly, she outlined actionable steps that every employee of the university can take to prevent and address such incidents, reinforcing the commitment to creating a safe and respectful working environment for all. This demonstration further emphasized the importance of proactive measures and collective responsibility in building a workplace culture that prioritizes the well-being and dignity of every individual.

This initiative underscores the university’s commitment to fostering a safe and respectful environment within the university, promoting awareness, and ensuring the effective implementation of policies aimed at preventing and addressing sexual harassment.

The event, held on 15 December 2023 at 3:00 PM in Zakir Hussain Lecture Hall Complex, UoH brought together university stakeholders, including administrative and security staff, and sanitation personnel.