Maneka asks Bollywood producers to submit report on sexual harassment

Union Minister Maneka Gandhi on Monday asked Bollywood production houses to submit reports of sexual harassment received by the Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) set up by them.

"As responsible employers, all are obliged to follow law of the land. I urge the Bollywood production houses to do so and submit a report on the Internal Complaints Committee set up by them. Together, we need to ensure a safe workplace for our women," Gandhi tweeted.

Last year, Gandhi wrote to 24 leading production houses urging them to comply with India's 2013 sexual harassment Act, reminding them that they are "ethically and legally" responsible for providing a "safe, secure and inclusive work environment" for all staff under the Indian law.

"It is encouraging to know that seven Bollywood production houses have already accepted my request and complied with the Sexual Harassment At Workplace Act. I expect the other producers to ensure similar compliance at the earliest," she added.

The move follows last year's #MeToo movement after allegations of sexual harassment were brought to the fore by several women against Hollywood producer Harvey Weinstein.

--IANS

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