The All India Football Federation (AIFF) has taken a significant step towards ensuring a safe and secure working environment for all individuals involved in Indian football. In line with the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act of 2013, the AIFF has introduced a PoSH (Prevention of Sexual Harassment) policy to combat sexual harassment in the sport.
The PoSH policy is a comprehensive framework that aims to prevent and address any form of sexual harassment in the football community. It is a proactive approach by the AIFF to create a safe and inclusive environment for all individuals, regardless of their gender, in the football fraternity.
The policy has been formulated after extensive consultations with various stakeholders, including players, coaches, officials, and other members of the football community. It is a result of the AIFF’s commitment to promoting gender equality and ensuring the well-being of all individuals involved in the sport.
The PoSH policy not only aligns with the provisions of the PoSH Act of 2013 but also goes beyond its requirements to provide a more robust and effective mechanism for preventing and addressing sexual harassment. It includes a detailed code of conduct, guidelines for handling complaints, and a redressal mechanism to ensure a fair and impartial investigation of any reported incidents.
One of the key aspects of the PoSH policy is the establishment of an Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) at every level of the football hierarchy, from the national team to the grassroots level. The ICC will be responsible for receiving and addressing complaints of sexual harassment, conducting inquiries, and recommending appropriate action against the accused.
The AIFF has also mandated that all individuals associated with Indian football, including players, coaches, officials, and support staff, undergo mandatory training on the PoSH policy. This training will not only create awareness about sexual harassment but also educate individuals on how to prevent and respond to such incidents.
The introduction of the PoSH policy by the AIFF is a significant step towards creating a safe and inclusive environment for all individuals involved in Indian football. It sends a strong message that the AIFF is committed to promoting gender equality and ensuring the well-being of its members.
The policy also reflects the AIFF’s progressive approach towards addressing social issues and its willingness to take proactive measures to combat them. It sets a positive example for other sports organizations in the country to follow and reinforces the AIFF’s position as a leader in promoting gender equality in sports.
Moreover, the PoSH policy will not only benefit individuals associated with Indian football but also have a positive impact on the overall development of the sport. It will create a more welcoming and inclusive environment for women to participate in football, both on and off the field. This, in turn, will lead to the growth and development of women’s football in the country.
In conclusion, the AIFF’s introduction of the PoSH policy is a commendable move that deserves appreciation and support from all stakeholders in Indian football. It is a step in the right direction towards creating a safe and inclusive environment for all individuals involved in the sport. The policy reflects the AIFF’s commitment to promoting gender equality and ensuring the well-being of its members, and it is a significant milestone in the development of Indian football. Let us all join hands and support the AIFF in its efforts to make Indian football a safe and welcoming space for everyone.
