POSH and Sexual Harassment Lawyers in Kolkata: Complete Legal Guide

Sexual harassment is a serious issue and it can happen anywhere — in offices, colleges, public places, or even online platforms. In a big city like Kolkata, where people work across IT companies, corporates, hospitals, schools, universities, media houses, factories, and government offices, harassment-related incidents unfortunately still exist.

Many victims hesitate to speak out because of fear, shame, job insecurity, office pressure, or social judgment. Some people are unsure whether their experience qualifies as harassment. Others feel their complaint will not be taken seriously.

But one thing is very clear: sexual harassment is illegal, and you have the full legal right to report it and seek justice.

This article will help you understand:

What is POSH and sexual harassment law

When you should consult a lawyer in Kolkata

How the legal process works

What evidence you should keep

How to choose the right advocate for your case

What is POSH Act?

POSH stands for Prevention of Sexual Harassment at Workplace.

The POSH Act (2013) was created to protect employees from harassment at workplaces. It mandates companies, organizations, institutions, and even many small workplaces to maintain a complaint redressal system.

A workplace can include:

Office / corporate building

Work-from-home situations (official chats, emails, calls)

Client locations or field work

Conferences, meetings, or training events

Transport provided by the employer

Sexual harassment under POSH can include:

Unwanted physical touch

Inappropriate staring or gestures

Sexually coloured remarks or jokes

Showing pornography

Asking for sexual favours (direct or indirect)

Harassing messages through WhatsApp/email/social media

Threats related to job promotion, appraisal, or termination

Sexual Harassment Laws in Kolkata (Beyond POSH)

POSH is focused mainly on workplaces, but sexual harassment can also happen in non-work situations. For such cases, legal action is taken under criminal law (IPC or BNS depending on legal updates), and other applicable sections.

Examples include:

Harassment in public place or transport

Stalking

Molestation

Sexual intimidation

Online harassment / abuse / blackmail

Sharing private images without consent

Fake profiles or revenge content

If the matter is serious, the case may require police complaint (FIR) and court proceedings. A lawyer in Kolkata can guide you step-by-step, so your complaint is filed properly and supported with evidence.

When Should You Contact a POSH / Sexual Harassment Lawyer in Kolkata?

You should consult a lawyer when:

1) Workplace POSH complaint is ignored

If your organisation is not taking your complaint seriously or delaying the inquiry.

2) Internal Committee (IC) is biased

Some organisations try to protect senior employees or management. If the inquiry process seems unfair, legal help is important.

3) You are being threatened after complaint

Victims often face pressure like:

forced resignation

transfer threats

bad performance reviews

salary issues
A lawyer can take action quickly.

4) You want to file FIR or criminal case

In serious cases, a criminal complaint is necessary.

5) You are falsely accused

POSH is meant for protection, but false complaints can harm careers too. A lawyer can help ensure fair inquiry and protect your legal rights.

If you want to understand your options before taking action, you can start with a consultation using Online Legal Query and connect with legal experts for proper guidance.

How POSH Complaint Works in Kolkata (Simple Explanation)

If the harassment happens at workplace, the usual steps are:

Step 1: Written complaint

You submit a written complaint to the Internal Committee (IC) of your company.

Step 2: Inquiry process

The IC will:

take statements

review evidence

call both parties for hearings

prepare an inquiry report

Step 3: Final action

Depending on findings, action can include:

warning letter

suspension

termination

transfer

apology

counselling

police involvement (in extreme cases)

A lawyer can help you draft your complaint properly so no important point is missed.

What Evidence Helps in POSH / Harassment Cases?

Evidence is very important. Even if you do not have full evidence, you should still report. But if possible, keep:

1. WhatsApp chats / SMS
   Emails or official communications
   Call recordings (if legally applicable)
   Screenshots of messages or social media harassment
   Witness names (colleagues, classmates, security, staff)
   CCTV availability (request early)
   Medical report (if physical assault occurred)
   Timeline notes (date, time, location)
2. Many victims lose strong cases only because evidence was deleted or not saved in time.

Where to File Complaint in Kolkata?

Depending on your case, you may approach:

Workplace POSH Complaint

Your company’s Internal Committee (IC)

Police Complaint / FIR

Local police station in Kolkata

Women police station (if available)

Cyber Crime Police Station (for online harassment)

Other options

State Women Commission support

NGO and legal aid services

A local Kolkata advocate will know the correct jurisdiction and how to file your complaint properly.

How to Choose the Best POSH Lawyer in Kolkata?

Here are some simple tips:

Choose someone experienced in both POSH + Criminal law

Many harassment cases require both workplace inquiry and police/legal action.

Lawyer should respect privacy

Your matter is sensitive. Choose an advocate who maintains confidentiality.

Simple communication matters

If a lawyer uses complicated words and does not explain clearly, you may feel confused. Choose someone who explains things simply.

Avoid “100% guarantee” lawyers

No genuine advocate will promise a guaranteed win. A good lawyer will focus on evidence, procedure, and smart legal strategy.

Conclusion

Sexual harassment cases require courage, but also correct action. If you are facing harassment in Kolkata .whether workplace POSH issue or criminal harassment you should not stay silent. The law provides strong protection and legal processes for justice.

Taking guidance from a qualified advocate ensures:

your complaint is drafted properly

inquiry stays fair

evidence is preserved

your safety and career are protected

If you need quick guidance without confusion, you can consult through Online Legal Query and get step-by-step support from legal professionals.