Prevention of Sexual Harassment Cell - AIGS is a committee dedicated to creating a safe campus environment for students, staff, and faculty, free from fear, threats, and anxiety. Complying with the Prevention of Sexual Harassment Act is not only a legal requirement but also an ethical one. Educational institutions like AIGS must provide an environment that supports learning and development for everyone, and this includes protecting them from harassment, discrimination, or ragging. The cell enforces a zero-tolerance policy towards sexual harassment. If an employee is the perpetrator, the act is considered misconduct under service rules; if a student is the perpetrator, it's a violation of disciplinary rules. The term “workplace” is extended to include educational institutions and any place a student visits, “arising out of or during the course of studies,” which also includes transportation provided by the institution.
How to File a Complaint?
Aggrieved persons (women employees or students) must submit a written complaint or fill out the form given below to the ICC within three months of the incident or, for continuing incidents, from the last incident date; extensions up to three more months are possible for valid reasons. Complaints can be filed by the victim, or on their behalf by associates if incapacitated, proforma, or a direct approach to ICC members; verbal complaints receive assistance to document them.
Process of Conducting Inquiry
The ICC sends a copy of the complaint to the respondent within a week, who is required to respond along with any relevant documents and witness information within ten days. The inquiry is concluded within 90 days, after which a report with suggestions is delivered within ten days to the institution's Executive Authority, who must take action within 30 days.
Possible Actions and Appeals
The Executive Authority may impose penalties like warnings, suspension, expulsion, or counseling based on findings. Either party can appeal the ICC's report to the Executive Authority within 30 days. HEIs must publicize the policy, conduct awareness programs, and ensure ICC composition per UGC guidelines.
Major Events and Awareness Programs
The Cell conducts various awareness programs to educate the community.
- Awareness Programs for students and staff: These sessions are organized for both students and teaching staff.
- Orientation for freshers: The cell provides an orientation for new AIGS students to inform them about the Cell.
- Programs with external organizations: The cell has conducted awareness programs with “Durga India”.
- Engagement with industries: Awareness programs have also been extended to industries.
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Constitution of the Cell
The Prevention of Sexual Harassment Committee members in key roles:
| S.No. |
Name |
Designation |
| 1. |
Dr. Chitra Rathore |
Convener |
| 2. |
Dr. Rashmy Nair |
Member |
| 3. |
Dr. Leena Bhatia |
Member |
| 4. |
Dr. Suprithy Paliwal |
Member |
| 5. |
Dr. Anant Vijay Soni |
Member |
Event Reports