Jammu and Kashmir Government Issues Circular on Handling Sexual Harassment Cases
Srinagar, April 16, 2025 – The Directorate of School Education, Kashmir, under the Government of Jammu and Kashmir, has issued a circular addressing the referral and inquiry process for sexual harassment cases. The directive, dated April 1, 2025, aims to rectify procedural lapses and ensure proper handling of such incidents.
The circular highlights concerns over cases where sexual harassment incidents at workplaces are either not reported, mishandled, or inadequately addressed by District-level officers. It mandates that all Chief Education Officers and District Level Committees, constituted under the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013, strictly adhere to the following guidelines:
- All workplace sexual harassment cases must be promptly reported and referred to the appropriate District Level Committee.
- Cases under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act shall be reported and handled according to the legal provisions of the said Act.
- No unauthorized inquiries into such matters shall be initiated or conducted by officers not duly empowered under the relevant Acts.
The directive emphasizes the importance of ensuring due process, confidentiality, and timelines in handling complaints, with strict observance required to avoid breaches.
The circular has been circulated to the Financial Commissioner, Joint Director, Chief Accounts Officer, and all District Level Committees for necessary action and compliance.
