Protection Against Sexual Harassment of Women at Work Place in India : A Socio Legal Study

Abstract

Sexual Harassment is a social stigma which has increased in number. The sexual harassment not only includes rape or physical harassment of women but alsounwelcome sexual gesture or behaviour whether directly or indirectly as sexually coloured remarks; physical contact and advances; showing pornography; a demand or request for sexual favours; any other unwelcome physical, verbal/non-verbal conduct being sexual in nature. Sexual Harassment not only hurts the physical body but also rips off the soul of women. As it has been rightly observed by the Justice ArjitPasayat, “While a murderer destroys the physical frame of the victim, a rapist degrades and defiles the soul of helpless women.”Sexual Harassment is an unruly behavior. It is defined as an unwelcome behavior of sexual nature. Sexual harassment at workplace is a widespread problem in the world whether it be a developed nation or a developing nation or an underdeveloped nation, atrocities against women is common everywhere. It is a universal problem giving negative impact on both men and women. It is happening more with women gender in particular. How much ever one try to protect, prohibit, prevent and give remedies such violation will always take place. It is a crime against women, who are considered to be the most vulnerable section of the society.