By:
MANISH KUMAR
In a noteworthy initiative aimed at fostering a safer and more respectful work environment, Rashmi Malhotra Suryaputry, Chairperson of The OM Foundation and a certified POSH (Prevention of Sexual Harassment) trainer, was invited as a guest faculty by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) to conduct a specialized workshop on the “Prevention of Sexual Harassment of Women at the Workplace.” The event was held at the NHAI Headquarters in Dwarka, Delhi, and saw participation from 400 male employees, underscoring the critical need for awareness and the cultivation of a culture of respect at all organizational levels.
The workshop commenced with a formal welcome by Mr. Lt. Col. Bhanu Pratap Singh, Deputy General Manager of the Training Cell at NHAI, who presented Ms. Suryaputry with a bouquet, symbolizing the organization’s dedication to addressing this important issue.
Ms. Suryaputry’s workshop delved into the legal framework governing POSH, including the obligations of employers under the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition, and Redressal) Act, 2013. Through a combination of engaging discussions, real-life case studies, and interactive sessions, she emphasized the significance of understanding the various forms of sexual harassment, the mechanisms available for reporting such incidents, and the crucial role every employee must play in preventing and addressing such behavior.
A Workshop That Resonated: Insights and Impact
The 400 male participants engaged actively with the content, reflecting their commitment to understanding and upholding the principles of POSH. Ms. Suryaputry underscored that preventing sexual harassment is not merely a legal requirement but a moral imperative that contributes to a healthier, more productive, and inclusive workplace.
The success of the workshop can be attributed to its ability to simplify complex legal concepts, ensuring that every participant left with a clear understanding of their rights and responsibilities. A key takeaway from the session was the importance of bystander intervention—recognizing inappropriate behavior and taking proactive steps to address it before it escalates.
Ms. Suryaputry’s approach was both practical and empathetic, acknowledging the challenges that organizations face while offering solutions that are actionable and effective. Her message resonated clearly: “Together, we are taking steps toward creating a safer and more respectful environment for everyone in the workplace.”
Looking Ahead: Continuing the Journey Towards Awareness
The workshop at NHAI forms part of a broader initiative by The OM Foundation to raise awareness and promote the principles of POSH across various sectors. Ms. Suryaputry expressed her gratitude to NHAI and the participants for their openness and eagerness to engage with this vital subject.
“I am delighted to report that this workshop was a resounding success,” Ms. Suryaputry stated. “The enthusiasm and commitment demonstrated by the participants were truly inspiring. Together, we are laying the groundwork for a culture of respect and safety that will benefit everyone in the workplace.”
As organizations increasingly recognize the importance of proactively addressing sexual harassment, workshops like this are crucial in equipping employees with the knowledge and tools they need to contribute to a positive work culture. Ms. Suryaputry and her team at The OM Foundation remain committed to this cause, with plans to conduct further workshops and training sessions in the future.
In conclusion, the POSH workshop at NHAI was more than just a training session—it was a significant milestone in the ongoing journey to create workplaces that are not only legally compliant but are also environments where every individual feels safe, respected, and valued. Rashmi Malhotra Suryaputry’s expertise and dedication to this cause are driving meaningful change, one workshop at a time.
