Notice to respondent
Author and reviewer: CA Nikhil Gupta · Reference date 11 October 2026
Page contents
A controlled starting format for adaptation to the establishment, applicable rules and matter facts.
Practical guide · India · 11 October 2026
POSH respondent notice: statutory sequence and safeguards
A respondent notice serves the complaint and sets out the response process; it is not an adverse finding. Rule 7 of the POSH Rules, 2013 provides the important initial service and response timetable, subject to the applicable inquiry framework.
What the law or process actually requires
Under Rule 7(2), the committee sends one copy of the complaint to the respondent within seven working days of receipt.
Under Rule 7(3), the respondent files the reply, supporting documents and witness names/addresses within ten working days of receipt of the documents.
Section 16 restricts publication/disclosure of identities and specified inquiry information; use a secure channel.
Preserve service evidence, equal opportunity, relevant records and committee impartiality; do not imply guilt in the notice.
Worked example: applying this to a real decision
An Internal Committee receives a written complaint on Monday. It logs the statutory receipt date and serves a complete copy through the approved confidential channel within the applicable seven-working-day window. The date the respondent actually receives the complaint starts the ten-working-day response window. The committee records service and any fair-process directions rather than guessing a calendar-date deadline.
Three mistakes that change the outcome
- Do not put the complainant’s identity or detailed allegations in a company-wide email.
- Do not convert the committee’s initial notice into a disciplinary order.
- Check natural justice, service rules and the statutory restrictions on legal representation.
Frequently asked questions
When does the respondent’s reply period begin?
The ten-working-day period runs from receipt of the complaint documents under Rule 7.
Can the notice announce that harassment is proved?
No. That would pre-judge the inquiry; the notice begins a fair response process.
Official source: Government Directorate of Forest Education — POSH Rules, 2013. The applicable statutory text, order or notified rule takes precedence over this explanatory example.