Ch. I · Preliminary
Chapter
Chapter I
Preliminary
Scope, definitions, and the Act's baseline prohibition against sexual harassment at the workplace.
Sections in this chapter
Short title, extent and commencement
This is the operative national statute for workplace sexual-harassment prevention and redressal.
Definitions
The scope is intentionally broad. It covers many worker types, many workplace settings, and the institutional actors who run the complaint system.
Prevention of sexual harassment
The Act is not limited to physical acts. Threats to work, humiliation, interference with performance, or career-linked sexual pressure can all fall within scope.
About This Chapter
More About Chapter I
Chapter I establishes the foundational framework of the POSH Act. It defines the short title, extent and commencement of the legislation, sets out the key definitions used throughout the Act, and articulates the fundamental prohibition against sexual harassment at any workplace.
The definitions in Section 2 are deliberately broad, covering many worker types, many workplace settings, and the institutional actors who run the complaint system. This breadth is intentional — it ensures the Act's protection reaches beyond formal corporate employment to include domestic workers, contract staff, and those in the unorganised sector.
Section 3's prohibition is not limited to physical acts. It captures hostile-environment effects and quid-pro-quo style conduct tied to employment treatment, making it a comprehensive protective provision.
Key Stakeholders
Themes