Internal Complaint Committee

The College Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) is a mandatory body established in higher educational institutions to prevent, prohibit, and redress sexual harassment of women employees and students.

Mandated by the UGC Regulations 2015, the committee investigates complaints, ensures a safe, gender-neutral, and inclusive campus, and conducts awareness campaigns.

Core Functions and Objectives:

• Redressal: Handling complaints of sexual harassment and discrimination in a confidential, time-bound, and impartial manner.
• Prevention: Organizing workshops, seminars, and campaigns on gender sensitization and the POSH Act, 2013.
• Support: Providing guidance, counseling, and, if necessary, aiding in filing police complaints for victims.

Composition of the Committee:

According to UGC guidelines, the ICC usually consists of:

• Presiding Officer: A woman faculty member at a senior level.
• Members: At least two faculty/staff members, preferably committed to the cause of women or experienced in social work/legal knowledge.
• External Member: One member from an NGO or association working for women’s rights or familiar with sexual harassment issues.

Procedure for Complaint Handling:

• Submission: The aggrieved person submits a written complaint to the college authorities, who forward it to the ICC.
• Inquiry: The ICC conducts an inquiry, adhering to principles of natural justice, and may summon witnesses.
• Confidentiality: The identity of the victim, respondent, and witnesses is kept confidential.
• Recommendations: Based on the investigation, the committee recommends action against the offender (e.g., apology, warning, suspension, or expulsion).
• Timeframe: The investigation and report submission must be completed within a specified time limit, often within 90 days of the complaint.
  Scope

— The committee covers incidents that occur on campus, including during transportation, academic trips, and any other activities connected to the institution.