Updated on January 11, 2025 11:03:37 AM
The POSH Act, of 2013, is a landmark legislation in India that prevents sexual harassment in the workplace. One of the fundamental obligations for the organizations on this law is Annual Return Filing under POSH. This return furnishes an annual account of sexual harassment complaints received, actions taken, and preventive measures adopted by any organization in a given year.
In Haryana, like other Indian states, timely and correct filing of an annual return by business houses, government offices, educational, and nongovernmental organizations is a major compliance aspect under POSH. It is an exhaustive guide that reflects upon the entire process of POSH Annual Return Filing in Haryana, its importance, requirements, and best practices observed for compliance.
An annual return filing for POSH is an integral part of safety in working workplace environments in the state of Haryana. Following submission deadlines rigidly, while keeping detailed documentation intact, would ensure strict compliance with all the legalities involved as well as maintaining a respectful and safe setting in the workplace. These are demands that organizations should give due emphasis to show dedication toward the complete prevention of sexual harassment at the workplace.
The POSH Annual Return Filing is a legal mandate where an organization submits its report to the District Officer of the jurisdiction in which it resides. The report entails major data concerning complaints of sexual harassment, action taken on such complaints, preventive measures undertaken during the year, and awareness programs held at the same time.
The annual return aims to ensure that organizations are discharging their duty under the POSH Act as enlisted below:
The key components of POSH Annual Return Filing encompass the following:
The annual POSH return can be tricky for someone new to such a return. For one end, one can pursue an easy way to understand it in a few simplified steps:
All data related to complaints should be collected, such as dates, responses, resolutions, and pending cases. Report the training, awareness programs, or any other activities related to POSH conducted throughout the year.
Represent everything in a simple structured report that provides details regarding each resolved or pending complaint. Make sure sensitive information, such as the complainant or respondent's identities, is protected and anonymized while complying with guidelines.
Double-check facts for accuracy and completeness before submission. Coherently report all actions taken by the IC regarding complaints, and specify all pending matters.
The report will be submitted to the concerned District Officer of the state/the government (most likely, appointed by the state). Since submission deadlines vary, organizations should clarify such aspects with their local District Officer.
It is the filing of the POSH Annual Return that matters most, as there are several key reasons for its significance of which are beyond compliance. Here is why it is vital:
The procedure for filing the POSH (Prevention of Sexual Harassment) annual return is fraught with problems an organization needs to overcome to achieve compliance smoothly.
Organisations in Haryana need to submit the annual return with POSH ensuring strict compliance with the provisions of the Prevention of Sexual Harassment Act, 2013. Such practice helps keep legal requirements in check and keeps the organization engaged in facilitating transparency, which in turn helps an organization move towards a safe and respectful workplace. While the filing process poses problems to most, particularly with record and confidentiality issues, the practice of using digital tools regularly or availing oneself of proper training and ensuring timely filing can help make it easier and less cumbersome for compliance.
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POSH Compliance Annual Return Filing is a statutory annual return which throws light on an organization's efforts of preventing sexual harassment, including complaint records and committee action as well as training initiatives.
The POSH Act, 2013 mandates this return to be filed by all organizations with more than 10 employees.
Usually, in Delhi, it is filed with the Labour Department or the State Women's Commission.
The POSH annual return must be filed by 31st March of each year. However, it is advisable to confirm the specific deadline with the District Officer, as it may vary slightly depending on local regulations.
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