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.
3rd January, 2025 | Issue No. 62
Upcoming Events
Mark your calendars! In this section, we highlight an upcoming event you won't want to miss.
We are conducting a POCSO workshop on January 25, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM to enhance understanding of child sexual abuse and its legal framework under the POCSO Act. This full-day program, led by legal experts and professionals, will cover the prevalence of CSA, its psychological impact, relevant laws, and reporting mechanisms. Register now to gain crucial insights and contribute to protecting our children.
In the Spotlight!
Explore ways to build your knowledge and capacity with our team of in-house experts!
As we close the chapter of the past year, let’s step into 2025 with a fresh perspective and an open heart. This is a time to reset, embrace new opportunities, and reflect on the valuable lessons that have shaped us. Wishing you a joyful, prosperous, and peaceful New Year from Mental Health at Work, a vertical of Equilibrio Advisory! Read Here.
A thorough understanding of complaint closures under the POSH Act is crucial to ensuring justice for sexual harassment survivors. Our survey identifies key reasons for closures: 39% due to jurisdictional issues, 31% from complainant withdrawals, and other contributing factors. Addressing these challenges is essential for an effective redressal system. Click Here To know more.
We’ve curated a list of disability-affirming films released this year to highlight the importance of representation. It’s crucial to see diverse experiences reflected in media, ensuring that everyone’s story is told. These films not only entertain but also foster understanding and empathy, making them a valuable addition to any watchlist. To know more, click here.
Check out the feedback from our recent POSH training on our LinkedIn page. Share your thoughts and let us know what you’d like to see added to future workshops. We’d love to hear from you. Click here to know more.
Stay Current!
~ Spotlighting Landmark Judgments since passing of the Law!
I - LEGAL UPDATES
The Punjab and Haryana High Court acquitted an accused in a rape case, citing inconsistencies in the victim’s testimony and untorn clothes suggesting possible consent. The court found the victim’s contradictory statements and lack of corroborative evidence unreliable, emphasizing the importance of credible testimony and evidence in sexual assault cases.
The Punjab and Haryana High Court acquitted two accused under the POCSO Act, citing insufficient evidence. The court emphasized that guilt under Section 29 requires substantive proof, noting investigative flaws and inconsistencies in the victim’s statements and medical evidence. The ruling underscores the prosecution’s burden to substantiate allegations beyond doubt.
II - Exploring Intersections
India’s LGBTQIA+ community navigated complex challenges and milestones in 2024. Harmful stereotypes and systemic ignorance endangered trans lives, while the repeal of protections against male sexual violence exposed gaps in safeguarding queer men. The National Medical Commission’s queerphobic curriculum highlighted institutional resistance. Progress included the Social Justice Ministry’s anti-discrimination policy and media guidelines for responsible queer representation. Inclusive infrastructure emerged alongside a wave of Pride marches, reflecting growing visibility and solidarity. Intersectional advocacy continues driving equitable representation and systemic reform.
Engage with us!
Here's your weekly food for thought through a Fun Fact or Quiz.
The average Indian spends an alarming 4 hours and 48 minutes on their smartphone daily, contributing to a rise in smartphone addiction. This trend is affecting mental and physical health, causing issues like anxiety, sleeplessness, and neck or back pain. As mobile usage surges, especially among young adults, the Indian government and tech companies are launching initiatives to promote healthy digital habits and reduce screen time for better well-being.
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 one stay in a better space and maintain motivation in the new year?
Here’s all the tools you need to build safe and equitable workspaces!
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