This is with reference to the report “KSA declares war on abuse” (Aug. 27). This is undoubtedly a landmark decision and I would like to congratulate the Kingdom for taking such a step.
However, the next phase will be the effective implementation of the law. If implemented in letter and spirit, this will boost the image of the Kingdom in the comity of nations. This law is like a breath of fresh air. I hope that it is taken seriously and implemented effectively. This will help protect rights of women and check workplace harassment. However, there is a need for defining workplace harassment. This will help increase productivity of the employees.
Action should be taken against the culprits without any discrimination on the basis of his/her nationality. Be it an expatriate or a Saudi, if found guilty of workplace harassment, strict action should be taken against the culprit. This will put an end to this problem that has been haunting this country for the past many decades and has been a source of embarrassment.
The relevant authorities should also form special teams or even a special department to tackle all such cases. The teams or department should comprise of specially trained people with full knowledge and expertise to handle such issues. A special hot line and Web portal would also prove beneficial in this regard. However, special care should be taken in analyzing such complaints, as many times people tend to misuse such legislations to settle their personal scores. — Kareem Khan, by e-mail
War on abuse
