Tamil Nadu Government Issues Standard Operating Procedure to Strengthen Implementation of the PoSH Act
The SOP, issued under G.O. (Ms) No. 64 dated June 18, 2025, by the Social Welfare and Women Empowerment Department, aims to eliminate ambiguity in the application of the law and ensure uniform compliance across all public and private establishments in the state.
Chennai — In a decisive move to reinforce workplace safety and gender equity, the Government of Tamil Nadu has officially notified a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for the effective implementation of the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013—commonly known as the PoSH Act.
The SOP, issued under G.O. (Ms) No. 64 dated June 18, 2025, by the Social Welfare and Women Empowerment Department, aims to eliminate ambiguity in the application of the law and ensure uniform compliance across all public and private establishments in the state.
Key Highlights of the SOP
Clear Governance Structure: District Collectors will continue to serve as District Officers, while the Commissioner of Social Welfare has been designated as the State Nodal Officer to oversee implementation efforts.
Mandatory Internal Committees: All employers are required to constitute Internal Complaints Committees (ICCs) with at least 50% women representation. In unorganized sectors, Local Committees (LCs) will be formed under the supervision of District Officers.
Time-Bound Redressal: The SOP mandates that complaints must be addressed within 90 days, with provisions for interim relief such as leave, transfer, or no-contact directives during the inquiry process.
Zero-Tolerance Policy: Organizations must adopt a zero-tolerance approach to sexual harassment, clearly define misconduct in service rules, and ensure time-bound disciplinary action.
Inclusivity and Awareness: While the PoSH Act specifically protects women, the SOP encourages gender-neutral internal policies and mandates periodic awareness and induction training for all employees.
Legal Consequences for Non-Compliance: Employers failing to comply may face penalties up to ₹50,000, with repeat violations leading to license cancellation or non-renewal.
A Step Toward Safer Workplaces
Grounded in constitutional values under Articles 14, 15, and 21, and aligned with international obligations under the UN CEDAW, the SOP reflects Tamil Nadu’s commitment to dignity, equality, and justice at the workplace. It also responds to persistent confusion among stakeholders—even a decade after the enactment of the PoSH Act—by offering step-by-step procedural clarity for grievance redressal.
By institutionalizing this SOP, Tamil Nadu has taken a progressive step toward transforming compliance into a culture of respect and accountability. It sends a clear message: workplace safety is not just a legal requirement—it is a fundamental right. For further insights into the evolving workplace paradigm, visit
