INTERNAL COMPLIANCE COMMITTEE




Introduction

In accordance with the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013 and the UGC Regulations (2015), Sadakathullah Appa College established the Women’s Harassment Prevention Cell, which was reconstituted as the Internal Compliance Committee (ICC) in 2024. The college maintains a Zero-Tolerance Policy towards sexual harassment to ensure a safe, secure, and inclusive environment for all students, faculty, and staff.



Objectives

Prevention: To prevent discrimination and any form of sexual harassment against women staff and students.

Awareness: To conduct gender sensitization programs and workshops to educate the campus community on their rights and responsibilities.

Redressal: To provide a neutral, confidential, and supportive environment for resolving grievances.

Support: To offer counselling and support services to those who have faced harassment.



Definition of Sexual Harassment

Sexual harassment includes any one or more of the following unwelcome acts or behavior (whether directly or by implication):

Physical contact and advances.

A demand or request for sexual favors.

Making sexually colored remarks.

Showing pornography.

Any other unwelcome physical, verbal, or non-verbal conduct of a sexual nature (e.g., staring, whistling, winking, unwanted letters, or insulting dignity through songs/comments).


Composition of the ICC

The committee at Sadakathullah Appa College is composed of:

Presiding Officer: A senior woman faculty member.

Internal Members: At least two teaching and two non-teaching employees committed to the cause of women or experienced in social/legal matters.

Student Representatives: Three students (included if the matter involves students).

External Member: One member from an NGO or an individual familiar with issues relating to sexual harassment.


Grievance Redressal Procedure

Submission of Complaint: Any aggrieved person may submit a written complaint to the ICC within three months of the incident.

Confidentiality: The identity of the complainant and witnesses is kept strictly confidential.

Inquiry Process: The committee interviews the complainant, the respondent, and witnesses, following the principle of natural justice.

Timelines: The inquiry is typically completed within 90 days, and the report is submitted to the Principal/Management for action.


Penalties and Action

If allegations are proven, the committee may recommend:

Written apology or warning.

Withholding of promotions or increments.

Suspension or termination of service/enrollment.

Community service or mandatory counseling.


Contact Information

Complaints can be directed to the Women Harassment Prevention Cell or the Presiding Officer of the ICC.

Email: sadakathicc2024@gmail.com

Location: Administrative Block / Women’s Cell Office

Website: www.sadakath.ac.in

This policy is reviewed periodically to align with the latest UGC and Government of India directives.



Back to Top