Kerala state women’s commission advocates for female-friendly workplaces

Kochi: Kerala state women's commission chairperson P Sathidevi said that creating female-friendly environment in workplaces is crucial. She mentioned that employers, relevant authorities and govt systems need to assess whether workplaces are female-friendly, as majority of complaints received by the commission indicate this necessity.At the adalat held at Ernakulam Guest House hall on Monday, most complaints were related to issues faced by women in workplaces. Additionally, there were complaints about family issues, problems between couples and grievances experienced by elderly women.In a complaint received from IT sector, the commission asked the company concerned to report whether an internal committee was formed and if the complaint was considered by the committee.It was observed that as population density increases, neighbourhood disputes also rise. The commission said that legal awareness should be strengthened through vigilance committees at local self-govt level, and interventions should be made locally to solve issues.A total of 102 complaints were received at the adalat. Nineteen complaints were resolved and five were forwarded for police reports. In two complaints, it was decided to provide necessary counselling to the parties concerned.Along with the chairperson, members Elizabeth Mammen Mathai, Indira Ravindran and V R Mahila Mani heard the complaints. Commission director Shaji Sugunan, panel lawyers Smitha, Ambili, K B Rajesh and counsellor Pramod also participated.