Can I file a workplace sexual harassment complaint anonymously?
Asked by Anonymous · Answered 18 Jan 2026
A formal complaint under the POSH law generally needs to be made in writing and identify you as the complainant, since the Internal Committee needs to conduct a proper inquiry, which typically requires your participation and statement — a fully anonymous complaint is difficult to formally investigate through this specific process.
That said, the law does require the Internal Committee to maintain confidentiality throughout the process — details of the complaint, the identity of the complainant and respondent, and the proceedings are meant to be kept confidential, and employers are prohibited from retaliating against you for filing a genuine complaint.
If you're specifically worried about retaliation, it may help to first understand and document any instances of retaliation you experience after filing, since this is itself actionable, and to raise your concerns about confidentiality directly with the Internal Committee at the outset. If your organisation lacks a properly functioning committee, or you're not confident about how confidentiality will actually be maintained, consulting a lawyer before filing can help you understand your protections and the best way to proceed.
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