'Women have many ways to get justice in harassment cases'

Dakshina Kannada District Women’s Grievances Solution Committee President Prameela has said that though laws have become women-friendly, judiciary needs strong proof to punish the culprit of sexual harassment, as there is rise in cases of misuse of laws.

 

Speaking at an awareness programme on sexual harassment incidents, for the staff of all offices under the Deputy Commissioner, here at Mangalore City Corporation office premises, on Wednesday, Prameela said that there is a provision to take action against the culprits in sexual harassment cases under Classification, Control and Appeal (CCA) rules.

Meanwhile, she revealed the committee has not received any complaints of sexual harassment in the district.“However, it doesn’t mean that there is no such incidents going on, but there is lack of information among people. The committee has served information, discussions were held with them about the work of the committee, and scopes for their involvement.

We have also decided to keep a complaint box in every government office. Victims can also complain through a letter addressed to the DC,” she said. Committee Member Vijaya said that though sexual harassment is not new, the concept has changed as women have become equal to men both socially and economically.

The Apex court has defined the concept of sexual harassment in Vishaka case judgement. The court has also directed the companies to follow strict guidelines against sexual harassment, she said. 

Assistant Commissioner (Development) Kantharaju hailed media for creating awareness on sexual harassment. Meanwhile, he wanted men to involve more actively in the awareness programmes.