POSH(Prevention of Sexual Harassment) is often discussed from two perspectives: the complainant and the accused. Much less attention is given to the third dimension i.e -the team that continues to work together after a complaint is investigated and resolved.
Recent data suggests that workplace sexual harassment continues to be a significant concern in corporate India. The data deserves attention-
• Listed companies in India reported 2,777 sexual harassment complaints in FY2023–24, up from 2,026 in FY2022–23 and 1,313 in FY2021–22.(Forbes India) .
• Among the BSE Top 30 companies, 958 complaints were reported in FY2024–25, compared with 902 complaints in FY2023–24. (The Economic Times)
• According to data presented in Parliament, the Government’s SHe-Box portal received 254 workplace sexual harassment complaints in 2025. Since the portal’s relaunch in August 2024, 296 complaints had been registered.(Times of India )
At the same time, studies indicate that many companies continue to report zero complaints, which experts believe may reflect under-reporting rather than the complete absence of incidents. Some analyses have also highlighted a growing backlog of unresolved POSH cases.
When a complaint is formally registered, organizations have a defined process. Internal Committees investigate and actions may range from:
• Written apology
• Warning or reprimand
• Counseling
• Salary deduction or compensation
• Suspension
• Termination of employment
But what happens after the decision?
How does a team continue to collaborate productively when trust has been shaken?
How does a manager rebuild confidence among team members?
How do colleagues navigate uncertainty, assumptions, office gossip, and divided opinions?
Whether a complaint is substantiated or not, the workplace is rarely unchanged. Team dynamics, communication patterns, and psychological safety can all be affected.
This is where organizations must think beyond compliance.
POSH is not only about policy, investigations, and disciplinary action. It is also about creating a culture where:
• Employees feel safe to raise concerns.
• Due process is respected.
• Confidentiality is maintained.
• Teams are supported through difficult transitions.
• Productivity is rebuilt through trust rather than silence.
We believe the success of a POSH framework should not be measured only by the number of complaints filed or resolved. It should also be measured by an organization’s ability to restore professional working relationships, maintain dignity for all involved, and preserve a healthy workplace culture.
Compliance can close a case. Culture is what helps people move forward after it.
#POSH #WorkplaceCulture #Leadership #HR #DiversityAndInclusion #EmployeeExperience #PsychologicalSafety #CorporateGovernance