Prevention Of Sexual Harrasment

 

WHAT IS THE POSH ACT?

"The **POSH Act** stands for the **Prevention of Sexual Harassment at the Workplace Act**, which was enacted in **2013** in India. The law aims to create a safe and respectful working environment for all employees, regardless of gender."

"The act came into being after a 2012 landmark case where a woman, working in a multinational company, filed a complaint of sexual harassment. This highlighted the need for a clear law to address this issue in the workplace."

WHO DOES THE POSH ACT PROTECT?

"The POSH Act protects all individuals at the workplace, but it's particularly focused on safeguarding women from sexual harassment. This includes employees, interns, contractual workers, and even volunteers working for an organization."

"Importantly, it also applies to workers in both the formal and informal sectors. So whether you’re in a corporate office or working at a small organization, the law is there to protect you."

                Must watch :- Prevention of sexual harrasment

WHAT CONSTITUTES SEXUAL HARASSMENT?

"So what exactly does the law say about sexual harassment? The POSH Act defines sexual harassment as any kind of unwelcome behavior that is **physical, verbal, or non-verbal**. It includes acts like:

Unwanted physical contact or advances

Sexual comments, jokes, or gestures

Displaying sexually explicit materials

Any other behavior that creates a hostile or intimidating environment

"So if any of these things happen in your workplace, it could be considered harassment under the law."

COMPLAINT MECHANISM AND INTERNAL COMMITTEE

"Now, let’s talk about how the law actually works. If someone is harassed, they can file a complaint with the **Internal Complaints Committee** (ICC) in their organization. Every company with more than 10 employees is required to form this committee to deal with such complaints."

"The committee is supposed to be gender-neutral and must be headed by a woman. It also needs to have at least one external member — usually someone with experience in legal or social work related to sexual harassment."

DUTIES OF THE EMPLOYER

"Employers also have specific responsibilities under the POSH Act. They must:

1. Ensure the workplace is free from sexual harassment.

2. Take immediate action if a complaint is made.

3. Implement awareness programs and workshops to educate employees about the law.

"Basically, the employer must create an environment where harassment is not tolerated and ensure there are clear avenues for employees to report incidents."

PENALTIES FOR VIOLATION

"So what happens if the employer or the accused fails to comply with the law? Well, the law does have penalties. If the employer doesn’t set up an Internal Complaints Committee or fails to act on complaints, they could face a fine of up to ₹50,000. In more serious cases, they could face higher fines or even suspension of their business operations."

CONCLUSION

"To wrap things up, the POSH Act plays a crucial role in ensuring safe and dignified workplaces for all employees. It encourages employers to take proactive steps to prevent harassment and create an environment of respect."

"So, if you’re someone who works or manages a workplace, make sure you're aware of your responsibilities under this act. And if you’ve experienced harassment or witnessed it, know that there are legal frameworks in place to help.”

Constitution Day Of India

 

Today (November 26, 2024), President Droupadi Murmu will give a joint address to both Houses of Parliament to begin the festivities commemorating 75 years since the adoption of India's Constitution.

The Constitution went into effect on January 26, 1950, when India became a republic, even though it had been adopted on November 26, 1949. The administration has scheduled ceremonies for the entire year to commemorate the event. The Center established a new website, https://constitution75.com, on Monday, November 25, 2024, to let citizens to interact with the Constitution's legacy.

On November 25, union ministers started the "Samvidhan Yatra" to commemorate the 75th anniversary of India's constitution. According to Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, we are commemorating "Hamara Samvidhan, Hamara Samman" since the constitution will mark its 75th anniversary of creation. "I want to encourage the young people to band together for the country's progress," he continued.

Samvidhan Diwas, sometimes called Constitution Day, is observed annually on November 26 to honor the adoption of the Indian constitution, which shaped the country's democratic foundation. After three years, the Constituent Assembly, led by BR Ambedkar, finally drafted the constitution in 1949. On January 26, 1950, the Indian Republic's birth anniversary, the Indian constitution went into force.

          Read Also:-  Court Marriage and Special Marriage  

2024's Indian Constitution Day: 

Background In 2015, the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment of the Government of India formally designated November 26 to be Constitution Day in recognition of the historic occasion.

In accordance with the 1946 Cabinet Mission Plan, the Constituent Assembly created the constitution. Dr. Sachhidanand Sinha presided over the first session, which took place on December 9, 1946, with Dr. Rajendra Prasad serving as the permanent chairman. The longest constitution, which initially had 395 articles, 22 sections, and 12 schedules, was drafted under the direction of BR Ambedkar. Prem Behari Narain Raizada hand-wrote the Constitution in both Hindi and English using calligraphy, while Nandalal Bose and Shantiniketan painters created the artwork. Twenty-two historical pictures from the original manuscript are kept in helium-filled cases at the Parliament Library.

There have been numerous amendments made to the constitution. The 42nd Amendment, one of the 1976 changes, added Article 51-A, which enumerates ten obligations influenced by both international and Indian customs. In 2002, an eleventh duty was added.

2024 Constitution Day:

 Importance The framers of the Constitution are honored on Constitution Day. The longest written constitution in the world is that of India, which emphasizes the values of equality, justice, liberty, and fraternity. By holding discussions and establishing the framework for a sovereign, socialist, secular, and democratic republic, this day honors the Constituent Assembly's goals and achievements.

Constitution Day 2024: Top 10 quotes 

"The Constitution is not a mere lawyer's document, it is a vehicle of life, and its spirit is always the spirit of age." — B. R. Ambedkar

"We are Indians, firstly and lastly." — B. R. Ambedkar

"The Constitution only gives people the right to pursue happiness. You have to catch it yourself." — Benjamin Franklin

"The greatness of a nation lies in its fidelity to the Constitution and adherence to the rule of law." — Chief Justice John Roberts

"A constitution is not the act of a government, but of a people constituting a government." — Thomas Paine

"The Constitution is the guide which I will never abandon." — George Washington

"The beauty of the Constitution is that it enables each generation to interpret it for its own time." — Barack Obama

"Liberty lies in the hearts of men and women; when it dies there, no constitution can save it." — Learned Hand

"Democracy is not merely a form of government. It is primarily a mode of associated living, of conjoint communicated experience." — B. R. Ambedkar

"The most powerful Constitution is one written in the hearts of citizens." — Anonymous

Chief Justice Of India 2024: Sanjeev Khanna

 

President Draupadi Murmu administered the oath of the office of the Chief Justice of India (CJI) to Supreme Court judge Justice Sanjiv Khanna on Monday (November 11, 2024) at Rashtrapati Bhavan.

He comes from a distinguished legal family and is the third generation of his family to enter a legal profession. His father, justice Dev Raj Khanna, was a former Delhi High Court judge,and his uncle, HR Khanna was a renowned supreme court judge.

The swearing-in ceremony of the 51st Chief Justice of India at Rashtrapati Bhavan saw Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, government Ministers, former Chief Justices of India, sitting and retired judges of the Supreme Court and High Courts in attendance.

At ten in the morning, President Droupadi Murmu gave him the oath of office. He will hold the position of Chief Justice of India for a period of six months.

                           Read Also:- National legal service

The outgoing Chief Justice DY Chandrachud, who retired on November 10 after serving since November 9, 2022, nominated Justice Sanjiv Khanna, the Supreme Court's second-most senior judge, to be Chief Justice. Sanjiv Khanna, who was born on May 14, 1960, started practicing law in 1983 as an advocate for the Delhi Bar Council. He has a wealth of knowledge in the areas of taxation, arbitration, commercial law, environmental law, and constitutional law.

Justice Khanna also served as the Senior Standing Counsel for the Income Tax Department. In 2004, he was appointed Standing Counsel (Civil) for the National Capital Territory of Delhi.

Justice Khanna's noteworthy judicial career began in 2005 when he was appointed as an additional judge of the Delhi High Court and in 2006 when he was made a permanent judge. Justice Khanna had a crucial part in forming the legal system during his time there by making important contributions to the Delhi Judicial Academy, Delhi International Arbitration Center, and District Court Mediation Centers.

Justice Khanna was appointed to the Supreme Court on January 18, 2019, despite never having held the position of Chief Justice of a High Court. 

Arvind Kejriwal, the former chief minister of Delhi, was granted interim bail by Justice Khanna, one of his many historic rulings. Kejriwal was able to campaign for the Lok Sabha elections thanks to this judgment. In yet another significant decision, Justice Khanna emphasized that the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) may legitimately issue bail in cases when procedures have been delayed. This ruling was made in a case involving Manish Sisodia, the former deputy chief minister of Delhi.

As chief justice, khanna is widely recognised for his commitment to reducing judicial pendency and accelerating the pace of justice delivery in India.

National Legal Services Day , Celebrating equal access to justice

 Legal Services Day, observed annually on November 9, is a significant occasion in India. This day provides a forum for raising legal awareness and guaranteeing that all citizens, particularly those from underrepresented groups, have access to justice. In order to build a more just society, this day seeks to promote dispute resolution procedures and inform individuals about their legal rights through a variety of initiatives and events. National Legal Services Day inspires people and raises public awareness of the free legal aid that is accessible, which makes it significant beyond merely being celebrated.

On November 9, we commemorate National Legal Services Day, which emphasizes the value of universal access to legal help and justice. It was started by the Supreme Court and promotes legal knowledge, conflict settlement, and equal representation for underrepresented groups in India. It also increases awareness of free legal services, particularly for economically disadvantaged groups.

The date of National Legal Services Day 

Every year, all Legal Services Authorities mark November 9th as "Legal Services Day" in accordance to Chief Justice A.S. Anand's request during the First Annual Meet. The inaugural Annual Meeting of the State Legal Services Authorities (NALSA) took place in New Delhi on September 12, 1998. They decided to streamline and enhance legal assistance programs throughout India during this meeting after reviewing the state of existing programs.

2024's National Legal Services Day: history 

To provide legal assistance to disadvantaged and marginalized people, the Legal Services Authorities Act was established on November 9, 1995. As a result of this landmark legislation, the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) was created on December 5, 1995. Since then, every year has been National Legal Services Day. The day's major objective is to increase awareness of the free legal aid and alternative dispute resolution processes that are available. Giving free legal aid to those who cannot afford to hire an attorney is the day's goal.

                                   Read Also:-   Public Interest Litigation

For what reason is Legal Services Day important?

 The day is important to ensure that everyone is treated fairly. Giving everyone assistance and legal protection, especially to the less fortunate and impoverished members of society, is what the day advocates. The day also aims to increase public awareness of the law and streamline dispute resolution in order to ensure that everyone has access to justice. The National Legal Services Authority plays a crucial role in delivering justice to the marginalized and impoverished through initiatives like Lok Adalats and legal awareness campaigns.

Conclusion, National Legal Services Day reaffirms the dedication to justice and legal assistance for all, especially those who are less fortunate. Legal rights awareness becomes a cornerstone of social equality by ensuring that no one is denied representation by bridging the gap between underprivileged populations and legal resources.

Public Interest Litigation: How To File A PIL In India?

The phrase has gained widespread recognition in the context of current events. There are an end number of PILs being filed. However, are you aware of what a public interest litigation is? How may a PIL be filed? Who is eligible to submit a PIL? Here is everything you need to know about PIL before choosing to start the procedure. Any issue or policy of the government may be bothering you and may have long-term effects on the general public. These problems have the potential to undermine the general welfare and produce intolerable circumstances involving corruption, abuse, and violations of constitutional rights, among other things. PIL is the answer for you if you are a socially aware citizen. Using PIL, a potent legal weapon, you can try to correct the system.

What is the process for initiating a Public Interest Litigation in India? How does one go about filing a PIL?

What is litigation in the public interest?

It has to do with public interest, as the name implies. PILs, according to Wikipedia, are lawsuits filed to protect the public interest and show that socially disadvantaged persons can obtain justice.

Who Is Eligible to File a PIL?

An individual, a group of citizens, or a non-governmental organization may submit a PIL. The offended party need not be the only one who files a PIL. Any citizen may submit a PIL. Only the requirement that it be submitted in the public interest rather than for personal benefit will be enforced. The Honorable Court may even take suo moto cognizance if the issue is really important.

Where Do I File a PIL?

 The writ petition is extended by a PIL. There are two Articles that regulate the filing of a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) in India. One may file a Public Interest Litigation in either the Supreme Court or the High Court. Article 226 of the Constitution allows you to bring a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) before the High Court, while Article 32 allows you to file a PIL before the Supreme Court of India. If you are submitting a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) in the Supreme Court, you must file five copies of the PIL. The respondents will only receive copies of the PIL when the court notifies them of it.

However, you must serve a copy of the PIL to the respondents beforehand and provide two copies when filing a PIL in the High Court.

                                                  Read also:-   How Indian law works.

How Can a Public Interest Litigation Be Filed?

What is required in order to file a PIL? Which papers are needed in order to submit a PIL?

PIL filing is not as difficult as you may believe. To voice your concerns, you can send a straightforward letter or postcard to the Chief Justice of India or the Chief Justice of the High Court. However, if you can, it is preferable to follow the correct procedure. To file a Public Interest Litigation, you can do the following main actions. Compile all of the relevant facts about the problem.

- Make sure all the documents are compiled.

- Choose the court where you wish to file. 

- Send a PIL to the Chief Justice of the High Court in question in order to file it. 

- It should be addressed to the Chief Justice of India if it is being filed in the Supreme Court. 

- Two copies shall be submitted while filing it in the High Court, and the respondents should also receive a copy beforehand. 

- When the PIL is in the Supreme Court, five copies should be filed, and the respondents won't receive a copy until the court notifies them of it.

- Before filing a PIL, get advice from a qualified and experienced attorney since this can help you avoid wasting time on pointless stuff.

Documents Needed for PIL Filing

 The petitioner must include their name, occupation, yearly income, PAN number, phone number, email address, and postal address.

 - The petitioner's identification must be annexed. 

 - List names and addresses of all aggrieved parties.

 - List names and addresses of respondents or government agencies from which relief is sought by the petitioner.

 - Facts of the issue or case leading to fundamental rights violation

 - Nature of violation or injury

 - Any personal interest she/he/it may have.

 - The petitioner should also clarify about whether they will be able to pay the costs in case the court may impose any.

Can I file a PIL without a lawyer?

You have two options for presenting the case: in person or by hiring a Public Interest attorney. Hiring a lawyer to file a PIL, however, will be a smart move."

What is the required amount of money to file a PIL? 

The cost of filing a PIL is very low. A court fee of Rs 50 for each respondent must be paid by the petitioner and attached to the petition. Nonetheless, the expenses incurred to defend a case differ for each counsel. But be sure this isn't a pointless PIL before filing it. You might be charged by the court for wasting its time if you don't.

You are able to file a PIL

- For violating the fundamental human rights of underprivileged and impoverished individuals. 

- Policies of the government may impact social fairness, cause corruption, or violate    human rights.

- To force municipal officials to carry out their fundamental responsibilities. 

- Religious or fundamental rights violations

PILs cannot be filed for 

- Issues pertaining to services. 

- Issues pertaining to pay, pensions, gratuities, etc. 

- Tenant-landlord issues. complaints against local, state, and federal government agencies that do not involve matters covered by the Supreme Court's standards.

-  Issues concerning enrollment in educational establishments. 

-  Petitions asking the High Court and other courts to hold early hearings.

In conclusion, This is the process for bringing a Public Interest Litigation (PIL), and we hope that the information above answers all of your questions. A PIL should always contain the public interest to address the right issue and should not waste the court's time, thus whomever wishes to start should keep that in mind.

WHAT IS INDIAN LAW & HOW IT'S WORK ?

Indian law refers to the body of laws in India that govern the country and its citizens. It is a complex and multifaceted system influenced by the country's diverse cultural, historical, and social contexts. Here are some key characteristics and components of Indian law, along with an overview of how it works:

Characteristics of Indian Law

1. Common Law System: India follows a common law legal system, which is based on judicial precedents, customs, and statutes. English law heavily influenced Indian law during colonial rule, and many principles of English common law remain in effect.

2.Constitutional Framework: The Constitution of India, adopted in 1950, is the supreme law of the land. It lays down the fundamental rights and duties of citizens and establishes the structure of the government. All laws must comply with the Constitution.

3.Legislative Framework: Laws in India are made by the Parliament (for central laws) and state legislatures (for state laws). The legislative process involves several stages, including drafting, debating, and voting on bills.

4. Judiciary: The Indian judiciary is independent and has the power of judicial review to ensure that laws and executive actions comply with the Constitution. The Supreme Court of India is the highest court, followed by High Courts in each state and various subordinate courts.

5. Personal Laws: India recognizes personal laws governing marriage, divorce, inheritance, and adoption, which vary based on religion. For example, Hindus, Muslims, Christians, and other communities have their own personal laws.

Read also :- How to file criminal cases

 How Indian Law Works:

1. Legislation: The legislative process begins with the introduction of a bill in either the Lok Sabha (House of the People) or the Rajya Sabha (Council of States). After discussions and approval from both houses, the bill is sent to the President for assent. Once the President approves it, it becomes law.

2. Judicial System: The judiciary interprets and applies the laws. Courts resolve disputes between individuals, organizations, and the state. The court system is hierarchical, with the Supreme Court at the apex, followed by High Courts and subordinate courts. Courts have the power to enforce rights and settle legal issues based on statutes, precedents, and constitutional provisions.

3. Enforcement: Law enforcement agencies, such as the police, are responsible for enforcing laws and maintaining public order. They investigate crimes, apprehend offenders, and aid in the judicial process.

4. Legal Aid and Access: India has provisions for legal aid to ensure access to justice for marginalized and economically disadvantaged individuals. Legal services are provided through various government schemes and nonprofit organizations.

5. Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR): In addition to traditional court proceedings, mechanisms like arbitration, mediation, and conciliation are used to resolve disputes amicably and efficiently.

Overall, the Indian legal system aims to promote justice, protect fundamental rights, and ensure social order, reflecting the diverse and pluralistic nature of Indian society.