The Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) of St. Anthony’s College, Shillong, Meghalaya was constituted in August 2024 as per the University Grants Commission (Prevention, Prohibition and redressal of Sexual harassment of women employees and students in higher educational institutions) Regulations, 2015, to prevent and address issues related to sexual harassment, discrimination, and other workplace misconduct for women in the institute.
According to the UGC Regulation 2(k), “sexual harassment” includes anyone or more of the following unwelcome acts or behaviour (whether directly or by implication), namely:

1. Physical contacts or advances
2. Demand or request for sexual favors
3. Making sexually colored remarks
4. Verbal or non-verbal conduct of sexual nature
5. Showing pornography

The Standard Operation Procedures (SOP) of the ICC are aligned with the provisions outlined in Sections 5,6,7 and 8 of the UGC Regulations. The ICC conducts its procedures in strict adherence to the applicable Regulations. Steps involved in handling complaints are as follows:-

1. Registration: Complaints can be lodged in writing to the ICC through email or hard copy within 3 months from the date of the incident.
2. Preliminary Inquiry: Upon receipt of a complaint, the ICC shall conduct a preliminary inquiry to determine the prima facie validity of the complaint.
3. Mediation/Conciliation: When appropriate and with the consent of both parties, the ICC may facilitate mediation or conciliation to resolve the matter amicably.
4. Investigation: If negotiation is not feasible or if the complaint warrants further investigation, the ICC shall initiate a formal investigation following the principles of natural justice.
5. Report and Recommendations: The ICC shall prepare a report of its findings and recommendations for action, which may include disciplinary measures, counseling, or other interventions.
6. Follow-up: The ICC shall monitor the implementation of its recommendations and provide support to the complainant as needed.

Confidentiality

All information related to the complaints, including the identity of the complainant and respondent, shall be kept confidential to the fullest extent possible.

Review and Evaluation

• The effectiveness of the ICC shall be periodically reviewed by the Institution's Authority, and necessary modifications or enhancements shall be made based on feedback and evaluation.
• The ICC shall maintain annual reports detailing the activities, complaints received, and outcomes.

This SOP framework is designed to align with the UGC guidelines and ensure a transparent, fair, and effective mechanism for addressing complaints of harassment and discrimination against women within the institution.