Workplace harassment: how to complain safely

A safe and documented approach to reporting harassment at work.

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Step-by-step checklist

  1. Write down incidents with date/time/place and keep copies of messages/emails.
  2. Check if your workplace has an Internal Committee (IC) for POSH complaints (for women).
  3. Submit a written complaint to the IC/HR as per policy; ask for acknowledgement.
  4. Request interim relief if needed (transfer, leave, no-contact directions).
  5. If your workplace has no IC or doesn’t respond, seek legal aid and consider external complaints per advice.

Documents needed

  • Incident notes
  • Screenshots/emails
  • Witness list (if any)
  • Employment letter/ID

Typical timeline

  • Same week: document + submit complaint
  • 2–4 weeks: follow-ups and hearings (varies)
  • Ongoing: keep a record of all communications

FAQs

Do I need a lawyer?
Not always for internal processes, but legal aid can help if you face retaliation or non-compliance.

Related helplines

Women Helpline
24x7
Call 181
Women Helpline (Police)
Call 1091
NALSA / Legal Aid
Legal aid / advice referrals (availability varies by state).
Call 15100

Relevant legal provisions

POSH Act — Workplace sexual harassment redressal
Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013