SUKKUR: An awareness seminar on the Protection Against Harassment of Women at the Workplace Act, 2010 was held at Government Girls College Sukkur under the theme “Break the Silence, End Harassment: Speak Up, Stay Strong.”
The seminar was chaired by Mr. Muhammad Iqbal Arain, Consultant and retired District and Sessions Judge, Office of the Provincial Ombudsman Sindh, Sukkur. The event was attended by Principal Government Girls College Ms. Fakhar-un-Nisa Baloch, Regional Director Colleges Sukkur Dr. Shafiq Ahmed Rind, Deputy Director Colleges Sukkur Mr. Abdul Ghaffar Kalhoro, faculty members, and a large number of female students.
Addressing the participants, Mr. Muhammad Iqbal Arain said that the Protection Against Harassment of Women at the Workplace Act, 2010 was enacted to safeguard women against harassment at workplaces and to provide an effective legal mechanism for redressal of complaints. He emphasized that harassment is both a crime and a serious social issue that must be addressed collectively.
He informed the audience that women subjected to harassment could file complaints free of charge and explained that the Office of the Provincial Ombudsman Sindh, Sukkur, was actively hearing such cases and ensuring protection for women in workplaces across the province.
Explaining the complaint procedure, he said that after a complaint is filed, the accused is required to submit a response within the prescribed time, following which an inquiry committee examines the matter and forwards recommendations to the Provincial Ombudsman Sindh for a final decision.
During the interactive question-and-answer session, Mr. Arain highlighted that strict disciplinary action could be taken if allegations of harassment were proven. He stated that government employees found guilty could face penalties including stoppage of increments, suspension of salary, or dismissal from service.
He also urged educational institutions to ensure awareness of the law among staff and students, while cautioning against misuse of the legislation. He further informed participants that any person dissatisfied with a decision could file an appeal, which the appellate committee is bound to decide within three months.
The seminar concluded with a strong message encouraging women to speak up against harassment and seek legal protection without fear.
