In Compliance with UGC Regulations on Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal), 2013
Sankrail Anil Biswas Smriti Mahavidyalaya is committed to creating and maintaining a safe, inclusive, and gender-sensitive environment on campus. In accordance with the guidelines laid down by the University Grants Commission (UGC) and the Supreme Court of India, the college has constituted an Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) under the provisions of the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013.
The ICC functions as a statutory and proactive body that addresses issues of gender-based discrimination and sexual harassment, thereby fostering a culture of respect, dignity, and equality for all individuals within the institution.
Objectives:
- To prevent and prohibit any form of sexual harassment against women employees and students.
- To provide a neutral, confidential, and supportive mechanism for redressal of complaints.
- To promote awareness about gender equity and women’s rights through sensitization programmes and campaigns.
- To ensure fair and timely investigation and resolution of complaints in accordance with legal and procedural norms.
Structure of the Committee:
The ICC is comprised of:
- Presiding Officer: A senior woman faculty member
- Faculty Members: Two or more teaching staff members
- Non-Teaching Member: One woman staff member from the administrative or support staff
- Student Representatives: At least one from UG levels (preferably final year)
- External Member: A legal/social expert or NGO representative with experience in gender justice or women's rights
Functions & Responsibilities:
- Receive and register written complaints of sexual harassment from any aggrieved woman (student, faculty, staff).
- Conduct confidential inquiry and facilitate conciliation (if desired by the complainant).
- Submit findings and recommendations to the Principal/Appropriate Authority within stipulated time frames.
- Recommend appropriate disciplinary actions, if charges are proven.
- Ensure protection of the complainant from victimization or retaliation during the process.
- Organize gender sensitization and awareness programs, workshops, and campaigns at regular intervals.
- Maintain records of complaints, proceedings, and resolutions with confidentiality and integrity.
What Constitutes Sexual Harassment?
As per UGC regulations, the following (among others) constitute sexual harassment:
- Unwelcome physical contact and advances
- Demand or request for sexual favours
- Sexually coloured remarks
- Display of pornography
- Any unwelcome verbal, non-verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature
Filing a Complaint:
Any woman student, faculty, or staff member who experiences or witnesses any form of sexual harassment on campus may:
- File a written complaint to the Presiding Officer of the ICC
- Submit via email to the official ICC address (to be updated)
- Place complaint in the ICC Complaint Box located in the Administrative Building
All complaints are handled with strict confidentiality, sensitivity, and impartiality.
Awareness Activities:
- Gender Sensitization Workshops for freshers and staff
- Legal Literacy Seminars on Women’s Rights
- Self-defence and empowerment programs in collaboration with local police or NGOs
- Observance of International Women’s Day and related campaigns