Anti-Sexual Harassment Committee
What is Sexual Harassment?
Sexual harassment includes any unwelcome act or behavior (whether directly or by implication) of a sexual nature, such as:
- Unwelcome physical contact and advances
- Demand or request for sexual favors
- Making sexually colored remarks
- Showing pornographic content
- Any other unwelcome physical, verbal or non-verbal conduct of sexual nature
Such acts can occur in physical spaces (classrooms, labs, hostels) or through digital modes (social media, messages, etc.).
Why Sexual Harassment is Prohibited?
Sexual harassment:
- Violates the dignity, equality, and safety of individuals.
- Creates a hostile and toxic environment for students and staff.
- Impacts mental health, academic performance, and emotional well-being.
- Is a violation of fundamental rights under Articles 14, 15, and 21 of the Indian Constitution.
Hence, B.N. College, Dhoraiya maintains a zero-tolerance policy toward any form of sexual misconduct.
Government Rules – The PoSH Act, 2013
The Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013, popularly known as the PoSH Act, is a central law aimed at:
- Preventing sexual harassment of women at the workplace
- Prohibiting such behavior through awareness and monitoring
- Redressing grievances via structured complaint mechanisms
Key Features of the PoSH Act:
- Every institution must form an Internal Complaints Committee (ICC).
- ICC must include a presiding officer (woman faculty), faculty members, non-teaching staff, and an external member from an NGO/legal background.
- Time-bound investigation and redressal of complaints.
- Strict confidentiality of both complainant and respondent.
Importance of ICC According to NAAC
As per NAAC (National Assessment and Accreditation Council) guidelines:
- The ASHC is a mandatory committee to ensure gender sensitivity and promote a safe, inclusive campus.
- Its existence and effectiveness contribute to NAAC’s evaluation of institutional governance and student support systems.
- ICC helps fulfill national and global commitments toward gender equity in education.
Punishment for Sexual Harassment
If a student or staff is found guilty of sexual harassment, the institution may impose:
- Written apology and counseling
- Warning, suspension or expulsion from the institution
- Debarment from academic privileges or hostel
- Termination from service (in case of employees)
- Filing of FIR and criminal proceedings under IPC sections like:
- Section 354A – Physical contact and advances
- Section 509 – Word/gesture to insult the modesty of a woman
Punishments are determined after an impartial inquiry by the ASHC and may escalate based on the severity.
Role and Responsibilities of the Committee:-
The ASHC at B.N. College, Dhoraiya functions under the leadership of the Principal and is composed of:
- A Presiding Officer (Senior woman faculty)
- 2-3 faculty members
- 1 non-teaching staff representative
- 1 external member (from an NGO/legal field)
- 1-2 student representatives
Key Functions of ASHC:
Awareness Programs:
- Organize gender sensitization and awareness sessions
- Display anti-sexual harassment posters, rules, and helpline numbers
Receiving Complaints:
- Accept complaints confidentially and sensitively
- Ensure non-retaliation and safety of the complainant
Inquiry and Redressal:
- Conduct an impartial inquiry within 90 days of receiving a complaint
- Provide opportunity to both parties to be heard
- Recommend action to the Principal/management based on findings
Reporting:
- Maintain records of cases
- Submit annual reports on the number of complaints received, resolved, and pending
How to Report Sexual Harassment – Complaint Procedure
- Any student, teacher or staff who faces or witnesses sexual harassment can report it through:
Internal College Mechanism:
Written Complaint:
- Submit a signed complaint to the Presiding Officer of the ICC
- It should be made within 3 months of the incident (or later with reasons)
Email or Drop Box:
- Use the designated complaint email or drop box placed at key locations
- You can also E.mail us on the official website of the college.
Assistance:
- Complainant can take help of a friend, teacher, or student counselor while submitting the complaint
- Confidentiality Ensured:
- ICC maintains strict confidentiality and protection from retaliation.
- False complaints made with malicious intent may also invite disciplinary action.
Conclusion
B.N. College, Dhoraiya is committed to creating a safe, secure, and respectful environment for all students, teachers, and staff. The ASHC plays a vital role in ensuring that sexual harassment is prevented, prohibited, and addressed effectively.
All students and staff are encouraged to be aware of their rights, report any incident immediately, and support a gender-just and inclusive campus culture.