Shimla

Reaffirming its commitment to ensuring a safe, dignified and harassment-free workplace for women, the Director General of Police (DGP) has ordered a comprehensive statewide audit of the implementation of the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013 (POSH Act) across all units and establishments of the Himachal Pradesh Police.

The audit, to be completed within 15 days, will examine whether Internal Complaints Committees (ICCs) have been duly constituted in all eligible offices, whether they are functioning effectively, and whether mandatory procedures under the Act are being followed in letter and spirit. It will also assess the maintenance of complaint records, the timeliness of inquiry proceedings, awareness initiatives undertaken for personnel, and compliance with statutory reporting requirements.

Senior police officers, including Superintendents of Police (SPs) and Commanding Officers (COs), have been directed to personally supervise the exercise and submit detailed compliance reports to Police Headquarters within the stipulated timeframe. Any lapses in the constitution or functioning of ICCs will be rectified immediately. The DGP has warned of strict departmental action in cases of non-compliance, concealment of facts, or failure to implement corrective measures.

Emphasising zero tolerance towards workplace harassment, the DGP said this principle is non-negotiable for the Himachal Pradesh Police. The audit, he noted, is aimed not merely at procedural compliance but at strengthening institutional safeguards, promoting gender sensitivity, and fostering a professional environment rooted in respect and accountability.

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The Himachal Pradesh Police reiterated its commitment to upholding the rights, safety, and dignity of women personnel and ensuring that every workplace under its jurisdiction reflects the highest standards of lawful conduct and organisational integrity.