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In its judgement dated August 13, 1997, in the Vishaka case, the Supreme Court laid down certain guidelines and norms for the prevention and redress of sexual harassment of women at workplace. It was emphasized and directed in the judgement that until a legislation was enacted for the purpose, this would be treated as the law declared by the Supreme Court under Article 141 of the Constitution and the guidelines and norms would be strictly observed in all workplaces for the preservation and enforcement of the right of gender equality of the working women. The directions would be binding and enforceable in law until suitable legislation was enacted to occupy the field.
The National Commission for Women (NCW), which is mandated to protect and promote the interests and safeguard the rights of women, had suggested a draft Bill on the subject to take the place of the guidelines given by the Supreme Court, in consultation with organizations working for women’s rights. The draft Bill was placed on the website of the Department of Women and Child Development, Based on the comments received from all quarters and further consultations held, a revised Bill has now been put on the website of the Department of Women and Child Development for inviting comments. The comments received will be taken into consideration while finalizing the revised draft Bill.
UM:SPS:NC
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