PoSH Annual Compliance: A Mandatory Step towards a Safer Workplace
PoSH Annual Compliance: A Mandatory Step towards a Safer Workplace
Introduction
In today’s evolving work culture, ensuring a safe, inclusive, and respectful work environment is no longer optional—it is a legal and moral imperative. The Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013—commonly known as the PoSH Act—lays down clear guidelines and responsibilities for employers. One of the most critical but often overlooked aspects of this law is its annual compliance requirement.
At NBC Elite, we support organizations in aligning with the law while building a workplace culture of respect and accountability. Here is everything you need to know about PoSH Annual Compliance.
What is PoSH Annual Compliance?
PoSH Annual Compliance refers to a set of yearly legal obligations under the PoSH Act that every eligible employer must fulfill. These ensure transparency and reflect an organization’s proactive steps in preventing and addressing workplace sexual harassment.
Key Annual Compliance Requirements
- Filing Annual Report
Every employer is required to file an Annual Report with the District Officer (DO) under Section 21 of the PoSH Act. This report must include:
- Number of complaints received during the year
- Number of complaints disposed of
- Number of cases pending for more than 90 days
- Nature of action taken by the employer
- Details of awareness programs conducted
- Disclosure in the Board of Directors’ Report
As per the Companies Act, companies are required to disclose the following in their Board of Directors’ Report (AOC-2 filing):
- Confirmation of constitution of the Internal Committee (IC)
- Complaints received and redressed during the year
- Compliance with the provisions of the PoSH Act
This disclosure is now mandatory and applies to all companies, regardless of size or sector.
- Annual IC Meeting
The Internal Committee should conduct at least one annual meeting to review compliance, training efforts, and case management. Minutes of the meeting should be documented and preserved.
- PoSH Training & Awareness
Conducting regular training programs and awareness sessions for employees and IC members is a part of compliance. The annual summary should include the number and nature of these programs.
Consequences of Non-Compliance
Failure to comply with the PoSH Act may lead to:
- A fine of up to ₹50,000
- Cancellation of business license in case of repeated violations
- Legal liability and reputational damage
How NBC Elite Can Help
At NBC Elite, we offer end-to-end support to ensure PoSH Annual Compliance through:
✅ Drafting & filing of Annual Reports
✅ IC documentation audit and support
✅ Preparing Board Reports and AOC-2 PoSH disclosures
✅ Conducting annual IC meetings and reviews
✅ Custom PoSH training sessions and awareness workshops
Conclusion
Annual PoSH compliance is not just a statutory requirement—it is a reflection of your organization’s commitment to creating a safe and empowering workplace. By fulfilling these annual duties, you send a strong message: harassment has no place in your company.
Let NBC Elite be your trusted partner in building a compliant, respectful, and inclusive work environment.
Need help with your PoSH Annual Compliance?
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