ICC & WDC

The University in pursuance to the regulations published by UGC "University Grants Commission (Prevention, prohibition and redressal of sexual harassment of women employees and students in higher educational institutions) Regulations, 2015" has constituted the Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) at Darshan University for Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal of Sexual Harassment of Women employees and students in the Darshan University, as under:

Objectives of ICC

• To prevent discrimination and sexual harassment against women, by promoting gender equality among students and employees;
• To lay down procedures for the prohibition, resolution, settlement and prosecution of acts of discrimination and sexual harassment against women, by the students and the employees;
• Deal with cases of discrimination and sexual harassment against women, in a time bound manner, aiming at ensuring support services to the victimised and termination of the harassment;
• Recommend appropriate punitive action against the guilty party to the Chair/Provost of Darshan University.

Responsibilities of ICC

• To provide assistance if an employee or a student chooses to file a complaint with the police;
• To provide mechanism of dispute redressal and dialogue to anticipate and address issues through just and fair conciliation without undermining complainant's rights, and minimise the need for purely punitive approaches that lead to further resentment, alienation or violence;
• To protect the safety of the complainant by not divulging the person's identity, and provide the mandatory relief by way of sanctioned leave or relaxation of attendance requirement or transfer to another department or supervisor as required during the pendency of the complaint, or also provide for the transfer of the offender;
• Ensure that victims or witnesses are not victimised or discriminated against while dealing with complaints of sexual harassment; and
• Ensure prohibition of retaliation or adverse action against a covered individual because the employee or the student is engaged in protected activity.

The objectives of Women Development Cell are as under:

• Promoting Gender Sensitization: Conduct workshops, seminars, and awareness programs to sensitize the community about gender issues, stereotypes, and biases.
• Providing Support Services: Offer counselling and support services for women facing gender-based discrimination, harassment, or violence.
• Empowerment and Skill Development: Organize workshops, training programs, and skill development initiatives specifically tailored to the needs of women; Facilitate access to educational and vocational opportunities, scholarships, and internships for women.
• Promoting Health and Well-being: Organize health camps, awareness sessions, and workshops on women's health issues, including reproductive health, mental health, and nutrition; Advocate for access to healthcare services and facilities that address the specific needs of women.
• Addressing Gender Equity in Policies and Practices: Work with management and decision-makers to implement measures that promote gender equity and create a supportive work environment for women; Conduct gender audits to assess the organization's adherence to gender equality principles and identify areas for improvement.
• Celebrating Women's Achievements and Contributions: Organize events and awards to recognize and celebrate the achievements and contributions of women within the organization or community.
• Research and Documentation: To conduct research, collect data, and document cases related to women's issues, contributing to evidence-based advocacy and policy-making.
• Building Networks and Partnerships: Collaborate with alumni networks, industry associations, and community groups/NGOs to create opportunities for networking, mentorship, and support for women.