Legal Rights of Women at Workplace: Protection Against Harassment & Discrimination in 2025
by DigitalOpeners
05 Sep 2025
Business Management
Legal Rights of Women at Workplace: Protection Against Harassment & Discrimination in 2025
Women are essential to all industries in the current environment of rapid change. Harassment in the workplace, pay inequality, and gender discrimination remain hurdles for some groups, but Indian law gives strong protections to women at work to ensure a just and safe environment. Whether you are an employee or an employer, knowing these rights is important in 2025.
1. Protection Against Workplace Harassment
The POSH Act which stands for The Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013 is the central legislation in this regard in India. This guarantees that:
- Right to a physically, verbally, or psychologically safe work environment.
- Requisite of Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) for all organizations with more than 10 employees.
- Time-framed research and addressing of complaints.
- Retaliation protection after a complaint has been filed.
Women should feel free to report harassment and employers must legally respond in a timely manner.
2. Equal Pay and Non-Discrimination
The Equal Remuneration Act of 1976 and Code on Wages of 2019 ensure that female workers must be paid the same as male workers when doing equal or similar work. It is therefore not discriminatory to require:
- Hiring and recruitment
- Salary and benefits
- Promotions and career growth
3. Maternity Benefits and Workplace Support
Rights for working women granted by the Maternity Benefit (Amendment) Act, 2017 includes:
- 26 weeks of paid maternity leave for a maximum of two surviving children.
- Ability to work from home (where applicable).
- Creche facility mandated for companies with 50 and more employees.
Such policies guarantee women’s ability to harmonize work and motherhood without suffering any type of discrimination.
4. Protection Under Labour and Employment Laws
Women are protected by various labour laws, including:
- Factories Act & Shops and Establishments Acts: Regulation of working hours and night shifts.
- Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code, 2020: Emphasis on safety and equal opportunities.
- Right to Grievance Redressal: Employees can approach labour courts and commissions if rights are violated.
5. Steps Employers Must Take in 2025
To build a safe and inclusive workplace, employers should:
- Implement a clear anti-harassment policy.
- Conduct regular awareness sessions for staff.
- Ensure confidential complaint handling.
- Promote gender equality in leadership roles.
Conclusion
Workplace rights are not just about compliance but about creating a culture of dignity, safety, and equality. As we step into 2025, organizations must align with legal requirements and go beyond, fostering a truly inclusive work environment. If you are facing workplace harassment or discrimination, consult an experienced labour and employment lawyer to understand your legal remedies.
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