Definition
Sexual harassment at the workplace includes any unwelcome act or behaviour (whether direct or implied) that is sexual in nature, such as:
- Physical contact or advances
- Demand or request for sexual favours
- Sexually coloured remarks
- Display of pornography
- Any other unwelcome physical, verbal, or non-verbal conduct of a sexual nature
Definition of Workplace
A workplace includes any location visited by an employee in the course of employment, including:
- Office premises
- Field locations
- Transportation provided by the employer
Characteristics
- Unwelcome & sexual in nature
- Based on impact, not intent
- Occurs in a power-imbalanced environment
- May be a single incident or repeated over time
Also Read
Examples of Sexual Harassment
Below are behaviours that can constitute sexual harassment—especially when unwelcome or persistent:
Verbal and Non-Verbal Behaviour
- Sexually suggestive comments or innuendos
- Offensive jokes about body, appearance, or sex life
- Sexist remarks or gender-based teasing
- Repeated, unwanted flirting or sexual invitations
- Spreading rumours about someone’s private life
Visual and Digital Misconduct
- Displaying pornographic or sexually explicit content
- Sending inappropriate messages via SMS, WhatsApp, email, etc.
- Sharing offensive photos, posters, or memes
Physical Acts
- Touching, pinching, or brushing against someone
- Cornering, invading personal space without consent
- Unwanted kissing, fondling, or physical advances
- Persistently asking someone out after being declined
Power Abuse & Threats
- Intimidation or blackmail for sexual favours
- Retaliating against a woman who rejects advances or speaks out
- Threatening job security or promotions based on compliance
- Falsely accusing or spreading rumours for personal revenge
Important Legal Context (India)
The Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013 was enacted to provide protection and redressal to women facing harassment at work.
Conclusion
Sexual harassment at the workplace is a serious violation of women’s dignity and safety. Recognizing, preventing, and addressing it is essential to ensure a safe, inclusive, and equitable work environment.
