Sexual harassment at work: how to file a POSH complaint in India
Updated 2026-10 · General information, not legal advice.
The POSH Act protects women at work. A workplace must have a committee to hear complaints, and there is a time limit for filing. If you feel unsafe, help is available first.
When to use this
- You faced unwelcome touching, remarks or messages at work
- Your complaint to a manager was ignored
- Your workplace says it has no committee
Step by step
- 1
Write down what happened
Note dates, times, places, witnesses and keep messages or emails. Do this even if you are not sure you will file.
- 2
File a written complaint with the Internal Committee
Employers with 10 or more employees must have an Internal Committee. File the complaint in writing, generally within 3 months of the incident (it can be extended by up to 3 months for good reason).
- 3
Use the Local Committee if there is none
If your workplace has fewer than 10 employees or no committee, approach the Local Committee of your district.
- 4
Use the SHe-Box portal
The central government's SHe-Box portal lets you register a complaint online, and it is forwarded to the right authority.
Key facts
- Women in distress: 181. Emergency: 112
- The committee must keep your complaint confidential
- You can ask for interim relief such as a transfer, during the inquiry
Get your free action plan
Tell us what happened. We show your options, draft the letters and track every deadline.
Common questions
Is there a time limit to complain?
Generally 3 months from the incident, extendable by up to 3 months for good reason. Take advice if you are past it.
Do I have to go to the police?
Not necessarily. You can use the committee, and you may also file a police complaint if the conduct is a crime.