Internal Complaint Committee Members

"Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013"

The Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013, also known as the "PoSH Act", is an Indian law that was passed with the aim of making workplaces safer for women by preventing, outlawing, and redressing acts of sexual harassment against them. In pursuance of this act, Sri Guru Ram Das Institute of Medical Sciences & Research formed its Internal Complaints Committee (ICC).

According to this Act (2013), "sexual harassment" includes any one or more of the following unwelcome acts or behaviours (whether directly or implied);

• Physical contact and advances; or
• A demand or request for sexual favours; or
• Making sexually coloured remarks; or
• Showing pornography, or

Any other unwelcome physical, verbal or non-verbal conduct of sexual nature (for instance, remarks on the basis of colour, ethnic origin and sexual choices etc,).

Further, the following circumstances (among other circumstances) if it occurs or is present in relation to or connected with, any act or behaviour of sexual harassment may amount to sexual harassment: -

• Implied or explicit promise of preferential treatment in her employment, or
• Implied or explicit threat of detrimental treatment in her employment; or
• Implied or explicit threat about her present or future employment status; or
• Interference with her work or creating an intimidating or offensive or hostile work environment for her, or
• Humiliating treatment likely to affect her health or safety.

The ICC investigates allegations of sexual harassment made by resentful female students and workers (as defined by the Act 2013). When required, the complainant is given the appropriate protection while the complaint is kept completely secret. Complaints are promptly heard while upholding the moral and natural justice norms. On the basis of the investigation's results, the recommended guidance is given.