‘Self-doubt is the biggest barrier to action. A woman always knows when a line is crossed’ -said leading lawyer Pinky Anand at the recent POSH Conclave 2025.
The third edition of the National POSH Conclave & Excellence Awards 2025, hosted by NoMeans No, turned the spotlight on India’s evolving work- place safety narrative. Held at The Lalit, New Delhi, the event saw a powerful convergence of judiciary leaders, corporate stalwarts, HR heads, and DEI champions, united by a single goal: to create workplaces that are not just compliant, but truly safe and inclusive.
With over 200 delegates in attendance, the conclave showcased dynamic panel discussions, keynote addresses, and a landmark book release ‘Objection Sustained’ by Vishal Bhasin which offers an authoritative guide to POSH (Prevention of Sexual Harassment) compliance and landmark judgments.
Vishal Bhasin, Co-Found er of NoMeansNo, summarized the event’s purpose: “Workplace safety and inclusion are cornerstones of human dignity. The POSH Conclave is not just a dialogue – it’s a call to action.”
Speak up, don’t stay Silent
Senior Advocate and former Additional Solicitor General of India- Dr. Pinky Anand’s powerful message resonated with everyone: “Action doesn’t always mean legal action – it begins with resistance. A woman always knows when a line is crossed. Don’t justify it, speak up.”
When asked if sexual harassment is sector-specific, she didn’t mince words: “It runs across all professions from legal to corporate, from interns to judges. The ultimate test is to raise your voice. Action doesn’t always have to be legal; it starts with resistance, with saying no. The moment women protest, support follows.”
Does self-doubt often silence women? Said Anand: “Self-doubt is a trap we create for ourselves. A woman always knows when a touch is inappropriate. Don’t justify or second-guess your instincts. Speak up. That’s where real change begins.”
On the often-discussed issue of false accusations, Anand offered perspective: “In workplace harassment cases, misuse of the law is rare. It is a professional environment. Unlike other areas such as domestic violence, I see very little misuse here.”
Speakers emphasized that POSH is not just a legal requirement but a cultural shift that organizations must adopt. Rekha Sharma, former NCW Chairperson, called for awareness, ac- countability, and action as the true markers of safe workplaces.
Panel discussions highlighted the need for inclusive frameworks that address harassment across all genders, a shift from the traditional women-only lens of workplace safety.
According to Chella Pandian Pitchai, Global Head DEI, POSH Governance, Talent, Biocon Biologics – “Workplace harassment is not confined to women. Men, and even individuals from diverse gender identities, also face it. If inclusion is the goal, our policies must reflect that inclusivity,” he remarked, sparking a lively debate among the and awareness programs delegates. to ensure workplace safe- ty- wherever that work place may be.
The POSH framework, once tailored for structured office environments, must now adapt to decentralized workforces. From delivery agents to freelance professionals, every gig worker needs clear protection mechanisms, digital complaint platforms,
As Charu Vijayvargiya, HR Head, 92.7 Big FM, aptly noted: “Workplace is no longer confined to office cubicles. It can be someone’s home, a coffee shop, or even the road. With the gig economy, any place where you have a laptop and a phone becomes your workplace. A delivery girl, for instance, may face harassment while delivering goods to some- one’s home.”
Experts warned about. the digital dimensions of harassment-from virtual misconduct to misuse of online platforms. Cyber law expert Dr. Pavan Duggal stressed updating POSH policies for the digital era.
The POSH Excellence Awards 2025 celebrated organizations like Nestlé India, Steelcase, and UCO Bank for creating inclusive and fear-free work environments, proving that leadership commitment can transform workplaces. In a nutshell: The conclave made it clear -workplace safety is no longer optional. It’s a shared responsibility that requires proactive voices, robust policies, and cultural change.
