Speaking up about workplace sexual harassment is often easier when the harasser is a colleague or peer. However, it becomes risky when the perpetrator holds a position of authority, like a senior or boss. Reporting such cases could lead to termination, creating a daunting situation for victims who fear losing their jobs or facing retaliation. This power dynamic can silence victims.
For example, a woman took to Reddit’s r/AskIndia subreddit to share how her boss addresses her as ‘Princess’ and ‘Girl’, messages her ‘Good Morning’ every day, and corners her at work when she doesn’t humour his behavior. She claims that his behavior has turned erratic in the past year and that if she ignores him at work, he does not assign her work directly.
“My boss sends me WhatsApp messages where he addresses me as Princess and girl. His general behaviour towards me has become erratic since almost a year now. On some days he is messaging me first thing in the morning, calling me Princess and saying have a good day etc. When I ignore this or him, he starts ignoring me and cornering me in the office. He would not assign me any work directly and ask my senior to inform me about even the small things. I am quite distressed by this behaviour. He does all this on the pretext of considering me just as his daughter. However, this is taking a toll on my mental health,” she wrote.
Have a look at her post here.
However, there are various ways in which people, especially women, can address these problems and come to a solution, as was pointed out by several people in the comments section.
There were some who asked her to save screenshots of his messages and report them to HR.
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There were others who asked her to directly confront her boss and make it clear that she doesn’t like being addressed as ‘Princess’ or rather any other term other than her name. One can also file a complaint under The Prevention of Sexual Harassment (PoSH) at Workplace Act.
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She was also asked to seek advice from a female HR personnel or a female superior at work.
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Such mental harassment could turn sexual if steps are not taken at the right time.
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POSH at Workplace Act makes it mandatory for every organisation to define their sexual harassment policies, prevention systems, procedures and service rules for its employees.
To report workplace sexual harassment online under the POSH (Prevention of Sexual Harassment) Act in India, understand your rights and document the incidents. Review your company’s policy and contact the Internal Committee (IC) responsible for handling such complaints. File a formal written complaint detailing the harassment. Request confidentiality and cooperate with the investigation. Stay informed about the progress and seek external support if needed, including legal assistance. Reporting harassment is crucial to make sure your workplace is a safe space.