Haryana Speaker Harvinder Kalyan Stresses Legal Duty for Women's Workplace Safety
In a significant address on Tuesday, Haryana Legislative Assembly Speaker Harvinder Kalyan declared that ensuring the dignity and safety of women in the workplace is not merely a social or moral responsibility but a strict legal obligation. Speaking in Chandigarh, Kalyan emphasized that the Vidhan Sabha, as the state's paramount lawmaking institution, demands all its employees—whether directly or indirectly involved in the legislative process—to possess a comprehensive understanding of workplace-related laws.
Training and Awareness for Legislative Employees
Kalyan was presiding over a program specifically organized to sensitize employees about measures to prevent sexual harassment of women at the workplace. He articulated that heightened awareness among legislative staff leads to more effective and informed lawmaking, while targeted training programs significantly enhance overall operational efficiency. Reflecting on broader societal implications, the Speaker urged society to introspect on the kind of environment it wishes to create for women when they step out to work, underscoring the critical link between workplace safety and societal progress.
Deputy Speaker Highlights Women's Role in Indian Traditions
Deputy Speaker Dr. Krishan Lal Middha complemented these remarks by highlighting the esteemed position of women in Indian traditions through various customs and practices. He noted that the happiness and prosperity of a household are intrinsically connected to the well-being of women. Dr. Middha further stated that daughters contribute equally to the prosperity of both their parental and marital homes, reinforcing the importance of gender equality. He pointed to positive societal changes observed due to campaigns like 'Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao', which have fostered greater respect and opportunities for women across the nation.
Legal Framework Explained by Panjab University Expert
Dr. Vandana Arora, Chairperson of the Department of Laws at Panjab University, provided a detailed elaboration on the provisions of the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013. She explained that the legal framework for preventing workplace sexual harassment originated from the Supreme Court's landmark 1997 Vishaka Guidelines, which later culminated in the enactment of this comprehensive law by Parliament. Dr. Arora clarified that the Act applies universally across all sectors—including public, private, organized, and unorganized—ensuring broad protection for women employees.
The program underscored a collective commitment to fostering a safe and respectful work environment, aligning legal mandates with cultural values to advance women's safety and dignity in Haryana and beyond.
