The Equilibrio Gazette
A brief bulletin for building safe workspaces!
This weekly newsletter is your gateway to staying current on relevant
laws (like POSH, POCSO, Transgender Persons Act, etc.) and the
psychosocial intersections that impact the workplace.
20th September 2024 | Issue No. 48
Upcoming Events
Mark your calendars! In this section, we highlight an upcoming event you won't want to miss.
Of late conversations around sustainable workplaces has been on the forefront following the tragic demise of a young professional. Equilibrio Advisory brings you a timely conversation around what constitutes toxic workplace culture and what are the gaps that need to be addressed to shift from this hustle culture ethos. Our co-founder Samriti Makkar Midha, Rosanna Rodrigues (Head, Mental Health at Work) vertical, and Usri Basistha (queer, neurodivergent educator) delve into the nuances of this conversation, on 23rd September 2024 from 5 to 6 pm. Don’t miss it!
In the Spotlight!
Explore ways to build your knowledge and capacity with our team of in-house experts!
Our Co-Founder, Samriti Makkar Midha, was recently quoted in the Times of India, sharing her insights on addressing #MeToo moments beyond the office walls. She emphasizes the importance of handling these situations with care, regardless of the setting.
Creating an ethical workplace involves integrating principles like accountability, honesty, and respect into daily operations, fostering a positive and trusting environment. Compliance with the POSH Act, 2013, addresses sexual harassment and ensures psychological safety. Effective management and regular training are crucial for maintaining these standards and cultivating a respectful work culture.
The second Level of our DEIB Certification Course, In This Together is nearing its conclusion. We had a deeply informative and stimulating discussion in our last session. We looked at various frameworks that inform the lived realities of disabled and other marginalized persons. We explore how these understandings can be integrated into the workspace to make it an affirming one.
Stay Current!
~ Spotlighting Landmark Judgments since passing of the Law!
I - LEGAL UPDATES
The Andhra Pradesh High Court upheld the dismissal of a Junior Assistant from service for sexual misconduct. The court ruled that the inquiry followed due process, the evidence was valid, and the punishment was proportionate given the petitioner’s history of misconduct. The court emphasized it only intervenes if punishment is “shockingly disproportionate.”
The Delhi High Court ruled against reopening a sexual harassment case after significant delays and multiple Internal Committee (IC) reconstitutions. The court emphasized the need for timely resolutions in sensitive cases, awarded costs to the petitioner for undue hardship, and dismissed the re-enquiry order, respecting the petitioner’s desire to conclude the matter.
The Madras High Court dismissed the writ petition challenging a termination, ruling that a writ under Article 226 cannot be filed against private entities. The court advised the petitioner to seek redress through other legal avenues, including Section 18 of the POSH Act, 2013.
II - Exploring Intersections
Social media is abuzz with conversations around toxic work environment. But what really lends to a toxic workplace. We, at Mental Health at Work, have broken it down for you. We have also included ways to move towards an affirming and sustainable work culture.
Engage with us!
Here's your weekly food for thought through a Fun Fact or Quiz.
The WHO’s ‘Global TB Report 2023’ praised India for its ambitious goal of becoming TB-free by 2025, five years ahead of the global target. Since 2015, India has reduced TB incidence by 16% and mortality by 18%. In 2022, over 2.42 million cases were reported, thanks to enhanced detection and strong public-private collaboration. Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) has been pivotal in this mission, with companies funding awareness campaigns and supporting treatment access, showcasing how business interests can align with public health goals.
Have a burning question about POSH? Maybe Mental Health at Work, Child safety or DEI&B strategies? Drop us an email with your query and we would love to answer it, in all seriousness.
Curious Cat: How can workplace infrastructure be modified to accommodate an employee who uses a wheelchair?
Answer: To accommodate a wheelchair user, workplaces should implement ramps and elevators for easy access, along with wide doorways and hallways for movement. Adjustable desks and accessible restrooms are essential for comfort. Clear pathways and proper signage enhance navigation. Additionally, reserved parking and accessible emergency exits are vital. Training staff on inclusivity fosters a supportive environment, ensuring all employees feel welcomed and valued, empowering them to contribute fully to the workplace.
Here’s all the tools you need to build safe and equitable workspaces!
Drop us a Hey, to get started!
