Internal complaints committees have become an integral part of educational institutions, particularly in colleges. These committees have been set up to ensure that women on campus feel safe, secure, and supported. The primary goal of these committees is to address complaints of sexual harassment and gender-based violence that female students may face while pursuing their studies.

         The Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) is a committee that has been established by the University Grants Commission (UGC) to address complaints of sexual harassment and gender-based violence against women on campus. It is mandatory for all colleges to have an ICC, which is responsible for ensuring that women are not subjected to any form of discrimination or harassment. In 2013 the Government of India notified the POSH act 2013 consistent with the Vishakha Judgement, the act aspires to ensure women’s right to workplace equality, free from harassment.

         The mechanism of the ICC is simple yet effective. It is comprised of a group of individuals, including the college principal, faculty members, representatives of student organizations, and external experts, who have been trained in dealing with complaints of sexual harassment and gender-based violence. This committee is responsible for investigating complaints, taking necessary action, and ensuring that the complainant is safe and protected from any kind of retaliation.

         In conclusion, women’s internal complaints committees are an essential part of any college campus. They provide a safe and supportive environment for women to voice their concerns and take appropriate action to ensure that they are protected from any form of harassment. The ICC ensures that the complainant is provided with all necessary support to deal with the traumatic experience and that the perpetrator is held accountable for their actions. The mechanism of the ICC is simple yet effective, and it has played a crucial role in creating a safe and secure environment for women on college campuses.

The objectives of an Internal Complaint Committee (ICC) are to:

1. Provide a safe and confidential mechanism for employees to report incidents of sexual harassment and discrimination at the workplace.
2. Ensure that all complaints of sexual harassment are promptly and fairly investigated, and appropriate action is taken against the accused.
3. Create awareness among employees about their rights and responsibilities with respect to sexual harassment and discrimination.
4. Promote a work environment that is free from sexual harassment and discrimination.
5. Monitor and review the effectiveness of the policies and procedures related to preventing sexual harassment and discrimination in the workplace.
6. Provide support and assistance to employees who have experienced sexual harassment or discrimination.
7. Maintain records of complaints and actions taken, and submit periodic reports to the management.
8. Ensure compliance with the laws and regulations related to preventing sexual harassment and discrimination in the workplace.

Overall, the objective of the ICC is to create a safe and respectful work environment for all employees, students free from any kind of harassment and discrimination.

• The Internal Complaint Committee (ICC) has the power to recommend appropriate disciplinary action against the accused if the complaint of sexual harassment is found to be true. The disciplinary action can range from a warning or reprimand to suspension or termination of employment, depending on the severity of the offense and the company’s policies.
• It is important to note that the ICC’s recommendations are not legally binding, and the final decision on the disciplinary action lies with the management. However, the management is expected to take the ICC’s recommendations seriously and act upon them in a timely manner.
• In addition to disciplinary action, the ICC may also recommend other measures to prevent further harassment or discrimination in the workplace, such as counseling or training for the accused or the employees in general.
• The punishment or disciplinary action for sexual harassment or discrimination is an important aspect of the ICC’s work, as it sends a message to the employees that such behavior is not tolerated in the workplace and reinforces the company’s commitment to creating a safe and respectful work environment for all.
  
  

  The helpline number for students: Prof.A.K.Patole : +918830160610

   https://dprcollege.edu.in/icc/

Women’s cell/Internal Complaint Committee Members: