40% Surge in Sexual Harassment Complaints in FY24 in Top Indian Companies

Research indicates that women, younger workers, and those in male-dominated industries are particularly vulnerable. The psychological toll on victims includes anxiety, depression, and decreased job satisfaction, which can lead to higher turnover rates and reduced productivity.

Sexual harassment in the workplace remains a pervasive issue, significantly impacting employee well-being and organizational productivity. It encompasses a range of unwelcome behaviors, from verbal comments to physical advances, creating a hostile work environment.

Research indicates that women, younger workers, and those in male-dominated industries are particularly vulnerable. The psychological toll on victims includes anxiety, depression, and decreased job satisfaction, which can lead to higher turnover rates and reduced productivity. Moreover, organizations face substantial costs related to legal fees, settlements, and reputational damage.

Addressing sexual harassment requires a multifaceted approach. Effective strategies include comprehensive training programs that go beyond mere compliance to foster a culture of respect and accountability.

Regular, interactive training sessions, clear reporting mechanisms, and strong anti-retaliation policies are crucial. Leadership commitment to these initiatives is essential, as is the role of human resources in supporting affected employees and ensuring thorough investigations.

By prioritizing these measures, organizations can create safer, more inclusive workplaces that enhance overall employee morale and performance. But the actual situations are something else presented by Complykaro Report

Dramatic Increase in Complaints

Data compiled by Complykaro, an advisory firm specializing in POSH compliance, reveals a staggering 40.4% surge in sexual harassment complaints in FY24. According to a media report, 268 more cases were filed compared to the previous financial year. The BSE 30 companies collectively recorded 932 complaints in FY24.

Growing Awareness and Reporting Culture

The increase is attributed to growing awareness among women professionals regarding the Prevention of Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (POSH) law, and efforts by several companies to foster a supportive reporting culture. Vishal Kedia, POSH expert at Complykaro, stated, “This indicates increased awareness among employees which is leading to real change as more women are coming forward and lodging complaints.”

Sector-Wise Breakdown

The majority of the increase in POSH complaints came from the banking and IT sectors, which employ a higher number of women. Here’s a detailed look at the numbers:

ICICI Bank: 133 cases in FY24, up from 43 in FY23, 46 in FY22, and 33 in FY21.
TCS: 110 cases in FY24, up from 49 in FY23, 36 in FY22, and 27 in FY21.
Infosys: 98 cases in FY24, up from 78 in FY23, 25 in FY22, and 16 in FY21.
Tech Mahindra: 93 cases in FY24, up from 74 in FY23, 45 in FY22, and 30 in FY21.
HDFC Bank: 77 cases in FY24, up from 68 in FY23, 51 in FY22, and 47 in FY21.
Axis Bank: 36 cases in FY24, slightly higher than 34 in FY23, 45 in FY22, and 39 in FY21.
Tata Steel: 21 cases in FY24, down from 38 in FY23, 22 in FY22, and 21 in FY21.

Conclusion

The surge in complaints highlights the increasing awareness and willingness of women to report incidents of sexual harassment, reflecting a positive shift towards safer workplaces.

Stay tuned, to PropleManager.co.in for further updates on the evolving workplace paradigm.

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