Introduction of Special Leave Connected to Enquiry of Sexual Harassment

“Special Leave & Sexual Harassment Inquiry: Introduction”

In light of recent events, our organization has implemented a new policy of special leave which is directly connected to an inquiry of sexual harassment. The purpose of this inquiry is to investigate any allegations of sexual harassment within the workplace and provide a safe and comfortable environment for all employees. This new policy will give employees who feel uncomfortable or unsafe an opportunity to take time off work without negative consequences. It is our duty to ensure a welcoming and respectful workplace for all, and we take this matter seriously.

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA
MINISTRY OF RAILWAYS
RAILWAY BOARD

RBE No.51/2017

E(P&A)I-2017/CPC/LE-3

New Delhi, dated 29.05.2017

The General Managers and FA&CAOs
All Indian Railways & Production Units.

Sub: Introduction of Special Leave connected to inquiry of Sexual Harassment.

Consequent upon the decision taken by the Govemment, the President is pleased to decide that the following rule may be inserted in the Railway Service (Liberalised Leave) Rules, 1949 in respect of female railway employees:-

Special Leave connected to inquiry of sexual harassment – Leave upto a period of 90 days may be granted to an aggrieved female Railway Servant on the recommendation of the Internal Committee or the Local Committee, as the case may be, during the pendency of inquiry under Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013 and the leave granted to the aggrieved female Railway Servant under this rule shall not be debited against the leave account.

2. This rule takes effect from the date, the notification was published by the Department of Personnel and Training viz. 15th March, 2017.

3. The provisions of the Railway Service (Liberalised Leave) Rules, 1949 are contained in Chapter-5 of Indian Railway Establishment Code (IREC), Volume-I, 1985 Edition (Reprint Edition-2008). In view of this, in exercise of the powers conferred by the proviso to Article 309 of the Constitution, the president is pleased to direct that a new para 551(F) may be inserted in Chapter-5 of the Indian Railway Establishment Code, Volume — l, 1985 Edition (Reprint Edition-2008) as per enclosed Advance Correction Slip -132.

4. This issues with the concurrence of the Finance Directorate of the Ministry of Railways.

5. Please acknowledge receipt.

DA:- Correction Slip.

sd/-
(Anil Kumar)
Railway Board