Srinagar, Aug 20 (JKNS): A two-day workshop on workplace harassment titled “Strengthening the Internal Committees for Zero Tolerance Campus” began on Wednesday at Government College for Women, M.A. Road, Srinagar, focusing on prevention, support and redressal mechanisms in cases of sexual harassment.
Details available with news agency JKNS stated that, workshop titled ‘Strengthening the Internal Committees for Zero Tolerance Campus’ is being organised by the Internal Committee of the host college in collaboration with WISCOMP (Women in Security, Conflict Management and Peace), New Delhi.
The workshop is being attended by IC members and gender champions of various colleges with participants discussing and learning to address and resolve complaints of sexual harassment at the workplace in line with the mandate of the Internal Committees under the POSH Act.
Vice Chancellor Cluster University Srinagar, Prof. (Dr.) Mohammad Mobin, who was the chief guest at the inaugural, as per JKNS said, “Strengthening Internal Committees in higher education institutions is essential to create a safe and inclusive environment. We must adopt modern tools like digital platforms, online reporting and case tracking systems to enhance transparency and credibility in handling sexual harassment complaints.”
He added that awareness about what constitutes harassment was equally important, stressing: “Exemplary punishments for perpetrators along with awareness programmes for students and staff will go a long way in making ICCs more impactful.”
Director WISCOMP, New Delhi, Dr. Meenakshi Gopinath, in her keynote address, said: “We must move beyond traditional patriarchal structures and develop a new language to address gender and equality issues. Empathy, humility, and inclusivity are the hallmarks of leadership needed to tackle harassment and build a culture of respect.”
Earlier, Principal of the host college, Prof. Yasmeen Farooq, welcomed the participants and said: “Our commitment is to create a zero-tolerance campus where harassment is addressed promptly. Training workshops like this strengthen sensitivity and awareness among students and staff.”
The workshop, organised by the Internal Committee of GCW in collaboration with WISCOMP, is being attended by IC members and gender champions from various colleges. Sessions will cover the legal framework under the POSH Act, the spectrum of harassment, role of ICs, and strategies for building safe and gender-sensitive campuses. (JKNS)
