The Odisha government has asked all offices and educational institutions across the state to clearly display the Dos and Don’ts related to the POSH (Prevention of Sexual Harassment) Act. This step aims to raise awareness about appropriate workplace conduct and help prevent sexual harassment. The state has made it compulsory for every organisation to put up visible boards or posters outlining the basic rules of behaviour and redressal mechanisms under POSH.
I’m writing about this topic because many people are still unaware of their rights and responsibilities when it comes to sexual harassment at the workplace or in colleges. While the POSH Act has been around since 2013, its actual implementation on the ground has remained weak, especially in smaller cities and rural institutions. By making the display of these rules mandatory, Odisha has taken a small but important step toward creating safer environments. As someone who believes in spreading awareness about workplace safety, I feel it’s important to highlight such efforts. This is not just about rules on a wall—it’s about changing the way we think and behave, especially in professional and educational settings.
What Is POSH and Why It Matters
POSH stands for the Prevention of Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace Act, 2013. It was passed to protect women from harassment in any professional or academic space. Over time, the law has grown to cover all genders and create a safe environment for everyone.
But despite being in force for over a decade, many employees and students are still unaware of its details. Institutions either do not form Internal Committees (ICs) or fail to sensitise people about what counts as harassment. That’s why displaying clear Dos and Don’ts can serve as a constant reminder and also deter potential offenders.
Odisha Government’s New Direction
As per the directive issued by the Odisha State Commission for Women, all workplaces and academic institutions—whether government-run or private—must now display the following:
- The Dos and Don’ts under the POSH Act
- The composition and contact details of the Internal Committee (IC)
- A simple explanation of how to file a complaint
- Information on what constitutes harassment and how it will be handled
This information must be placed at a visible and accessible location inside the premises.
What Should Be Displayed: Key Points
Here’s what a standard POSH awareness board should include:
Dos:
- Maintain professional behaviour at all times
- Respect personal boundaries and space
- Speak up if you see someone being harassed
- Report complaints to the Internal Committee without fear
Don’ts:
- Do not make unwelcome remarks, jokes or gestures
- Avoid touching anyone without consent
- Don’t share offensive content in the office or online groups
- Do not ignore or dismiss someone’s discomfort
Importance for Educational Institutions
Many colleges and schools have been slow to adopt POSH guidelines. Often, students—especially women—are not even aware that they have a right to report inappropriate behaviour. By displaying these boards in hostels, classrooms, and administrative offices, institutions can ensure:
- Better awareness among students and staff
- Timely intervention in case of harassment
- Reduction in gender-based violence on campuses
The government’s move also sends a strong message: harassment is not just a personal issue, it’s a systemic one, and institutions must play a key role in prevention.
Real Impact or Just Form Filling?
The real challenge will lie in implementation. While display boards are a step forward, they must be backed by:
- Active and trained Internal Committees
- Regular awareness sessions and workshops
- Quick and transparent handling of complaints
- Strong action against repeat offenders
Only then will the POSH Act serve its real purpose. Just putting up a poster is not enough if no one reads it or acts on it.
