The Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition, and Redressal) Act, 2013, commonly referred to as the POSH Act, is applicable to all workplaces in India, including universities. The legislation mandates the creation of an Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) in workplaces with ten or more employees. The ICC’s primary role is to address complaints of sexual harassment within the workplace, extending its responsibility to cover universities as well.
Functions of the ICC:
The primary function of the ICC is to address complaints of sexual harassment in the workplace. This involves the following tasks:
- Receiving Complaints: The ICC accepts written complaints of sexual harassment from employees, students, or any other individuals associated with the university.
- Conducting Inquiries: Upon receiving a complaint, the ICC promptly and impartially initiates an inquiry to determine the validity of the allegations.
- Confidentiality: The ICC rigorously maintains confidentiality throughout the inquiry process to safeguard the identities of the complainant, witnesses, and the accused.
- Providing a Fair Hearing: The ICC affords an opportunity for both the complainant and the accused to present their cases and provide evidence.
- Recommendations and Action: Following the completion of the inquiry, the ICC submits its findings and recommendations to the university administration. These recommendations may encompass disciplinary action against the accused, policy changes, awareness programs, or other appropriate measures.
- Follow-up: The ICC ensures the effective implementation of its recommendations and monitors the situation to prevent any further instances of harassment.
How to lodge a complaint of Sexual Harassment in ICC?
- Submit the Complaint: You may need to submit the complaint in person, or by email to any one of the committee members mentioned from Sl. No. 1 to 5. Please mention you Full Name, Designation/Student ID/Staff ID, Department/Faculty and Contact Information.( Send an email to iccposh@cnlu.ac.in )
- Confidentiality: If you’re concerned about your privacy, inquire about the confidentiality measures in place. The ICC will ensure the confidentiality of both the complainant and the accused throughout the process.
Caveat
All female faculty members, non-teaching staff and students must bear in mind that such complaints are of an extremely serious nature and should, on no account, be made in a frivolous manner. This platform should not be misused to settle personal scores, or for any other non-genuine reason
