Workplace Harassment: Why You Don't Speak Up

by RainMaker India PoSH Online Training - Workshops

When it comes to sexual harassment, most people think that woman is being harassed or propositioned by a male co-worker, supervisor, or boss. It’s not completely wrong- as most of the cases of workplace sexual harassment do involve female victims. But, men can also be sexually harassed in the Workplace by female co-workers. However, the vast majority of sexual harassment cases are filed by women. In 2018, 2,553 sexual harassment cases were registered by women during the #metoo movement.

Why women are afraid to speak up

As per the survey conducted by the Indian Bar Association in 2017, 70% of women said they did not report sexual harassment by superiors because of feared the repercussions, feared negative consequences like being alienated or fired. There are many reasons that stop women to come out and speak against sexual harassment. They are afraid of what society will think or speak about them — and this kind of thinking prevents them from registering a case against the accused person. As per the study, victims of previous abuse and assault are at a higher risk of being sexually assaulted again.

Apart from that, there is a lack of knowledge about the Women's Rights and PoSH Act in women. They may not know where to go to report against the harassment and what types of steps need to be taken. Women often go to offices, workplaces, or committees with the intention of becoming independent, but they find themselves puppets in the hands of superiors. So, if you or your friend felt that you are being sexually harassed by your boss, co-worker, or male workers, don’t be hesitate to come out. Speak against the crime. There are many steps you can take, including:-

Create a distraction
Ask directly
Refer to an authority
Enlist others

The most important thing is that Your actions matter a lot. Whether you may, or may not be able to change the outcome, but you have the potential to change the way people think about their role in preventing sexual assault. If you suspect that someone you know has been sexually assaulted, you can do much think to protect her and show you care.