Vishaka Guidelines: Addressing Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace

The correct answer is option 'D', which is related to the Vishaka Guidelines that deal with the issue of sexual harassment of women at the workplace. The Vishaka Guidelines were established in 1997 by the Supreme Court of India in response to a case of sexual harassment at the workplace in Rajasthan.

Background
In 1992, Bhanwari Devi, a social worker, was gang-raped by a group of men from a higher caste in Rajasthan. Bhanwari Devi's case gained national attention and highlighted the need for legal measures to address sexual harassment at the workplace. The incident prompted women's rights activists and organizations to file a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) in the Supreme Court, seeking guidelines to prevent sexual harassment and ensure a safe working environment for women.

Key Provisions of Vishaka Guidelines
The Vishaka Guidelines laid down several important provisions to address the issue of sexual harassment at the workplace. These guidelines are as follows:

1. Definition of Sexual Harassment: The guidelines provided a comprehensive definition of sexual harassment, which includes unwelcome sexually determined behavior such as physical contact, advances, or sexually colored remarks, among other forms.

2. Preventive Measures: The guidelines emphasized the importance of preventive measures to eliminate sexual harassment at the workplace. It highlighted the need for employers to develop and implement a policy against sexual harassment and conduct awareness programs to educate employees about their rights and the consequences of such behavior.

3. Complaint Mechanism: The guidelines outlined the procedure for filing complaints of sexual harassment. It required employers to establish a complaint mechanism that is easily accessible to women, ensures confidentiality, and provides for a fair and impartial inquiry into the complaints.

4. Redressal and Remedial Measures: The guidelines emphasized the need for prompt and appropriate action in cases of sexual harassment. It recommended disciplinary action against the perpetrator, including termination of employment, and also suggested the provision of compensation or monetary relief to the victim.

5. Employer's Responsibility: The guidelines made it clear that it is the employer's responsibility to prevent and address sexual harassment at the workplace. Employers were instructed to take necessary steps to ensure the guidelines are followed, and if they fail to do so, they may be held liable.

Significance
The Vishaka Guidelines were a landmark step in addressing sexual harassment at the workplace. They provided a framework for employers to prevent and address such incidents, ensuring a safer working environment for women. These guidelines were a significant step towards recognizing and protecting women's rights in the workplace.

Conclusion
The Vishaka Guidelines were established in response to a case of sexual harassment and provided a comprehensive framework to address this issue. These guidelines have played a crucial role in creating awareness, preventing sexual harassment, and ensuring the safety and dignity of women at the workplace. It is important for organizations to implement and adhere to these guidelines to create a conducive working environment for everyone.