This discussion explores whether the whistleblower mechanism under the Companies Act, 2013, extends protection to individuals outside the company, such as lawyers, media, or suppliers. While the Act primarily focuses on protecting directors and employees from victimisation, the question arises if external parties who report illegal activities are covered. The consensus suggests that since external whistleblowers are not subject to internal victimisation, the specific protections afforded to employees and directors may not directly apply to them.
10 May 2022
Whether an outsider (not a former employee) (may or may not be a stakeholder) is covered under the Whistle Blower Mechanism under the Companies Act, 2013 ? If covered, whether he/she gets any protection just like the Directors and Employees of the company ?
11 May 2022
A whistle Blower may be outside the organization who discloses any illegal, immoral or illegitimate practices to the company. He/She may be; Lawyers Media Law enforcement Watchdog agencies. A Whistleblower could be a contractor, or a supplier who becomes aware of any illegal activities.
No victimisation possible for outsider hence no protection needed like employees and directors.