The Role of the Internal Committee (IC) in ensuring Workplace Safety

• Gender Sensitisation
• Human Resource
• POSH

Dr. Aparna Sethi

Corporate Trainer and Author

Let’s Beat Sexual Harassment at Workplace! Today we are going to see how the Internal Committee would help in ensuring the safety at workplace.

In the context of POSH (Prevention of Sexual Harassment) under Indian law, the Internal Committee (IC) is a legally mandated body established within organizations to address complaints of sexual harassment at the workplace.

Key Details about the Internal Committee (IC):

📜 Legal Basis:

The requirement for an Internal Committee comes from the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013, commonly known as the POSH Act.

🔧 Composition of the Internal Committee:

Every organization with 10 or more employees must constitute an Internal Committee at each office or branch. The committee should have:

1. Presiding Officer – A senior female employee.
2. At least two members – Employees who are committed to the cause of women, or have experience in social work, or have legal knowledge.
3. One external member – From an NGO or association committed to the cause of women, or someone familiar with issues related to sexual harassment.

Note: At least 50% of the members must be women.

📌 Functions of the Internal Committee:

1. Receive complaints of sexual harassment.
2. Conduct inquiry into the complaint, following principles of natural justice.
3. Recommend action based on findings (e.g., disciplinary measures).
4. Submit annual reports to the employer and District Officer.
5. Create awareness about the POSH Act and workplace rights.

🕒 Timeline for Handling Complaints:

• Complaint must be filed within 3 months of the incident.
• Inquiry should be completed within 90 days.
• The report should be submitted within 10 days of completion.
• The employer must act on the report within 60 days.

🛑 Penalties for Non-Compliance:

Organizations that fail to constitute an IC or do not comply with the Act may face fines up to ₹50,000, and repeat offenses can lead to cancellation of business licenses. To know more about this, do these courses POSH training for employees, POSH training, POSH certification.

The Internal Committee (IC) under the POSH Act, 2013 plays a critical role in ensuring workplace safety, especially in creating a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment free from sexual harassment. Its responsibilities go beyond just handling complaints — it also proactively works to prevent harassment and build a culture of safety and trust.

🔐 Key Roles of the Internal Committee in Ensuring Workplace Safety:

1. Complaint Redressal

• Receive and resolve complaints of sexual harassment.
• Conduct fair, impartial, and confidential inquiries in line with natural justice.
• Recommend disciplinary actions if allegations are proven.

2. Preventive Action

• Promote awareness about acceptable workplace behavior through:
  • Training sessions
  • Workshops and awareness drives
  • Display of POSH policy and IC contact details
• Assess workplace risks and suggest improvements to reduce harassment vulnerabilities.

3. Policy Implementation & Monitoring

• Help draft, update, and enforce the POSH policy.
• Ensure policies are communicated clearly to all employees.
• Regularly monitor workplace practices to ensure they align with anti-harassment norms.

4. Advisory Role to the Employer

• Advise management on measures to strengthen workplace safety and improve gender sensitivity.
• Recommend organizational changes (e.g., better lighting, privacy in workspaces, safe reporting channels).

5. Reporting and Accountability

• Submit annual reports with:
  • Number of complaints received and resolved
  • Actions taken
  • Awareness programs conducted
• Promote transparency and accountability within the organization.

6. Support to Victims

• Provide emotional and procedural support to complainants.
• Suggest interim measures like change of team, leave, or transfer for the complainant’s comfort.

✅ How This Ensures Workplace Safety:

• Deters misconduct by ensuring there are clear consequences.
• Builds trust in organizational processes and leadership.
• Empowers employees to speak up, knowing they’ll be heard and protected.
• Creates a culture of mutual respect, professionalism, and psychological safety.

Conclusion:

The Internal Committee (IC) under the POSH Act is not just a grievance redressal body — it is a cornerstone of workplace safety. By handling complaints with sensitivity and fairness, spreading awareness, and advising on preventive measures, the IC helps foster a safe, respectful, and inclusive work environment. Its proactive role in education, policy enforcement, and monitoring ensures that employees — especially women — feel protected and empowered. A strong, active IC is essential for any organization committed to promoting dignity, equality, and trust at the workplace. Get to know more in-depth with the help of these courses POSH training for employees, POSH training, POSH certification.