government colleges in India are mandated to have Sexual Harassment Cells (Internal Complaints Committees - ICCs) under the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace Act, 2013, following Supreme Court and UGC guidelines, to create a safe environment, prevent harassment, and provide redressal for students and staff, functioning as a core part of institutional safety with designated members for handling complaints and conducting awareness programs.
Key Aspects of these Cells:
Mandatory Constitution: Colleges must form an Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) as per the POSH Act.
Purpose: To provide a healthy, safe, and equitable environment for all genders, preventing sexual harassment and related violence.
Composition: Includes senior faculty, staff, and student representatives, with a senior faculty member often as the convener.
Process: Complaints are heard confidentially, investigations are conducted impartially, and appropriate action is recommended.