Ganderbal, Nov 03: Internal Complaints Committee (ICC), Central University of Kashmir (CUKashmir) Monday organised an expert lecture on "Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal of Sexual Harassment of Women Employees and Students in Higher Education Institutions" by noted academician and legal awareness expert, Prof. Viney Kapoor Mehra, who is also former Vice Chancellor of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar National Law University, Sonipat.
According to a statement issued here, speaking on the occasion, Prof. Sandhya Tiwari, Chairperson ICC reflected upon the objectives of the lecture and highlighted various sensitisation programmes Committee had been organising at the university. She viewed that ICC has to play a vital role in prevention, prohibition, and redressal of sexual harassment at higher education institutions. She thanked the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. A Ravinder Nath and functionaries in the administration for their unwavering support and guidance, which played a pivotal role in making the programme a resounding success.
In her address, Prof. Viney Kapoor Mehra, provided an in-depth understanding of the Vishaka Guidelines (1997) and the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013. She elaborated on the legal and ethical responsibilities of higher education institutions in ensuring a safe and inclusive environment for women employees and students. Prof. Mehra highlighted the three key aspects of the Act -- prevention, prohibition, and redressal -- and explained the crucial role of the Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) in addressing grievances. She emphasized the need for awareness programmes, gender sensitization workshops, and a strong institutional framework to promote respect and equality on campuses.
The lecture was followed by an interactive session in which participants raised questions regarding procedures, policy implementation, and the role of faculty and students in fostering a harassment-free academic environment.
The session began with a welcome address and introduction of the speaker by Mr Sunil Kumar Mannil, member ICC. Dr. Insha Mir, ICC member proposed the vote of thanks.