Clubs & Committees

Sexual Harassment Committee

Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013. It helps the female staff of the office of working place to address their grievances regarding violence & harassment cases, if any

The Prevention Sexual Harassment cell is committed to

• Observing the law on Sexual Harassment
• Sensitizing the community on gender issues
• Assisting internal Complaint Committee
• Addressing complaints from victim.

1. Purpose of the Act:

• Protection of Women: Ensures that women are protected from sexual harassment at the workplace, which can occur in both public and private sectors.
• Gender Equality: The Act promotes gender equality and ensures that women’s right to life, liberty, and equality is respected in the workplace.

2. Institution's Commitment:

• The Arcot Sri Mahalakshmi Women’s College of Law emphasizes zero tolerance for sexual harassment and works towards developing a culture that identifies and prevents such behaviours.
• They also commit to ensuring legal action is taken promptly when necessary.

3. Internal Complaints Committee (Samskruthi):

• The committee is in place to enforce the Act’s provisions and address sexual harassment complaints from staff, employees, and students.
• Its primary goals include creating a safe and secure work environment, raising awareness about sexual harassment, and ensuring a timely response to complaints.

4. Objectives of the Anti-Sexual Harassment Policy:

• Secure Environment: Ensuring a physical and social environment where harassment is deterred.
• Gender Sensitization: Promoting awareness and education about sexual harassment and gender issues.
• Clear Guidelines: Developing clear policies and procedures to address sexual harassment cases.
• Timely Resolution: Ensuring complaints are dealt with swiftly to offer support to the victims.

5. Definition of Sexual Harassment:

The policy clearly lists behaviours that constitute sexual harassment, which can be categorized into various forms:

• Verbal: Insulting comments, abusive language, suggestive jokes, etc.
• Physical: Unwanted physical contact, invasion of space, molestation, etc.
• Psychological: Humiliating, intimidating, or isolating behaviour, gossip, or derogatory remarks.
• Visual: Displaying offensive or sexually suggestive materials or content.

6. Role and Responsibility of the Institution:

• To take proactive and preventive measures to stop harassment.
• To raise awareness through regular sessions and visible anti-harassment posters.

The approach aims to create a culture where sexual harassment is not tolerated and where all staff and students can feel safe, respected, and empowered to report any inappropriate behaviour. It also ensures that complaints are heard and dealt with fairly and efficiently.