POSH for Women in Police and Law Enforcement: Understand Workplace Protections.

By shagun, 2 April, 2025

Introduction

Women in police forces and law enforcement agencies play a crucial role in maintaining law and order. However, sexual harassment in police departments remains a serious issue.

Did you know?

Many female police officers face sexual harassment from male colleagues, senior officers, and even the public. Gender discrimination and workplace bullying are common challenges. Reporting sexual harassment can be difficult due to hierarchical power structures.

The POSH Act, 2013 (Prevention of Sexual Harassment at Workplace Act) protects women in police and law enforcement, ensuring a safe and respectful workplace.

This guide will help you understand:

What counts as sexual harassment in police and law enforcement?
Your legal rights under POSH
How to report harassment and seek justice
Steps police departments must take to protect women

1. What is Considered Sexual Harassment in Law Enforcement?

The POSH Act defines sexual harassment as any unwelcome sexual behaviour that makes a woman feel unsafe at work.

Common Forms of Sexual Harassment in Police and Law Enforcement

Harassment by Senior Officers or Colleagues

Making sexist jokes or inappropriate comments about appearance.
Asking for sexual favours in exchange for promotions or training opportunities.
Unwanted physical contact during training or duty shifts.

Harassment from the Public or Criminals

Verbal abuse and threats from criminals or detainees.
Unwanted advances from the public during field duty.
Stalking or inappropriate behaviour by informants or witnesses.

Gender Discrimination and Workplace Bias

Denying promotions or field duties to female officers.
Assigning only desk jobs instead of operational roles.
Ignoring harassment complaints made by women.

Example: A female constable faces verbal harassment from her male senior officer but is told to "adjust" instead of filing a complaint—this is a POSH violation.

2. Who is Protected Under POSH in Law Enforcement?

The POSH Act protects all female officers and employees in law enforcement, including:

Police constables and head constables
Sub-inspectors and inspectors
IPS officers (Indian Police Service)
Women working in intelligence agencies (CBI, RAW, NIA, etc.)
Female forensic experts, legal advisors and administrative staff;
Police trainees, interns and contractual workers

Even if you are in training or on a temporary contract, you are legally protected under POSH.

3. How to File a POSH Complaint in a Police Department?

Step 1: Report the Incident to the Internal Complaints Committee (ICC)

Every police station, district headquarters, and law enforcement agency must have an ICC for handling sexual harassment cases. Submit a written complaint within 3 months of the incident. The ICC must start an inquiry within 7 days.

If your department does not have an ICC, you can report to the Local Complaints Committee (LCC) in your district.

Step 2: Collect Evidence (If Available)

Audio/video recordings or CCTV footage (if the harassment happened in a monitored area).
Text messages, emails, or chat screenshots showing inappropriate behaviour.
Witness statements from other officers or colleagues.

Step 3: ICC Investigation and Actions

The ICC must complete the inquiry within 90 days. If harassment is proven, the department must take strict action against the offender. Possible actions include:

suspension or termination of the accused officer.
Compensation for the victim (if financial loss occurred).
Mandatory sexual harassment training for all staff.

Step 4: Appeal to a Labor Court (If needed)

If the ICC's decision is unfair, you can:

Appeal in labour court within 90 days.
File a police complaint if the harassment involved physical assault or threats.

Example: A female officer is groped by a senior inspector during a training session. She files a complaint, but the ICC dismisses it without proper investigation—she can take the case to a labour court.

4. Legal Rights of Women in Law Enforcement Under POSH

The POSH Act gives female police officers and law enforcement employees the following rights:

Right to a Safe Workplace: Police departments must ensure a harassment-free environment.
Right to Confidentiality: The victim's identity must be kept secret.
Right to Protection from Retaliation: Employers cannot fire or demote a woman for filing a POSH complaint.
Right to Fair Investigation: The ICC must complete enquiries within 90 days.
Right to Legal Action: If harassment is serious, victims can file an FIR with the police.

Example: A female SI (sub-inspector) files a harassment complaint against a DSP (Deputy Superintendent of Police). If she faces job transfer as punishment, she can appeal for wrongful retaliation.

5. What Should Police Departments Do to Prevent Harassment?

Under the POSH Act, every law enforcement agency must take these steps:

Set up an Internal Complaints Committee (ICC): required for all police stations with 10+ employees.
Conduct POSH training: Officers and staff must attend sexual harassment prevention workshops.
Display POSH Policies: Posters and guidelines must be visible in all police stations.
Take Action Against Harassers: Strict action against any officer, junior, or senior involved in harassment.
Ensure Safe Reporting: Female officers should be able to report harassment without fear.
Example: If a police department fails to set up an ICC, it can be fined ₹50,000 for non-compliance.

6. What to Do If Your Department Ignores Your POSH Complaint?

If your police department fails to take action, you can:

Report to the Local Complaints Committee (LCC) in your district.
Approach a labour court for employer non-compliance.
File a police complaint (if the harassment involved physical assault or threats).

Example: A female ACP (Assistant Commissioner of Police) reports harassment by a superior. If the ICC delays the case and takes no action, she can take the case to a labour court or LCC.

7. FAQs on POSH for Women in Law Enforcement

Can the POSH Act be used against senior police officers?

Yes! The law applies to all employees, including top-ranking officers.

What if my department does not have an ICC?

You can file your complaint with the Local Complaints Committee (LCC).

Can I file a complaint anonymously?

No. However, your identity will be kept confidential throughout the investigation.