The Indian Institute of Gems & Jewellery (IIGJ), as a premier educational institution under the Gems and Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC), sponsored by the Ministry of Commerce & Industry, Government of India, is committed to creating a safe and inclusive environment for all its employees, students and stakeholders. In alignment with this commitment, IIGJ strictly adheres to the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition, and Redressal) Act, 2013 (POSH Act). 

1. Objective

The objective of this policy is to provide a safe and secure working and learning environment free from sexual harassment for all employees, students, and visitors at IIGJ. This policy aims to prevent, prohibit and redress any instances of sexual harassment at the institute in accordance with the POSH Act, 2013. 

2. Scope

This policy applies to: 

• All employees (permanent, temporary, contract or trainees) and students of IIGJ. 

• Any person visiting the institute, including vendors, clients, guests and other stakeholders. 

• All campuses, departments and premises of IIGJ, including any place visited as a consequence of, or during, employment or study. 
  
  

3. Definition of Sexual Harassment

As per the POSH Act, 2013, “sexual harassment” includes any one or more of the following unwelcome acts or behaviour (whether directly or by implication): 

• Physical contact and advances. 

• A demand or request for sexual favours. 

• Making sexually coloured remarks. 

• Showing pornography. 

• Any other unwelcome physical, verbal or non-verbal conduct of a sexual nature. 
  
  

4. Preventive Measures

IIGJ is committed to creating awareness about sexual harassment through: 

• Regular workshops and training sessions for employees and students. 

• Displaying the POSH Act policy at prominent locations within the institute premises. 

• Encouraging a culture of respect and dignity for all. 
  
  

5. Internal Complaints Committee (ICC)

IIGJ has constituted an Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) at each campus to address complaints of sexual harassment: 

• Composition: The ICC consists of a Presiding Officer (a senior woman employee), at least two members from amongst employees (preferably committed to the cause of women or with experience in social work or legal knowledge) and one external member from an NGO or with relevant expertise. 

• Role: The ICC is responsible for receiving complaints, conducting inquiries, and recommending appropriate actions. 

• Tenure: The members of the ICC will serve for a term of three years. 
  
  

6. Complaint Procedure

• Filing a Complaint: Any aggrieved person may file a written complaint to the ICC within three months from the date of the incident. The ICC may extend the time limit if it is satisfied with the reasons for the delay. 

• Resolution Process: Upon receipt of the complaint, the ICC will conduct a confidential and impartial inquiry. Both parties will be given an opportunity to be heard. 

• Action and Penalties: Based on the findings, appropriate disciplinary action will be taken against the offender, which may include a warning, suspension, dismissal or any other action as deemed fit. False or malicious complaints will also be penalised. 
  
  

7. Confidentiality

All proceedings under this policy shall be strictly confidential. The identity of the complainant, respondent, witnesses and any details of the complaint shall not be disclosed to anyone except for those directly involved in the investigation. 

8. Protection Against Retaliation

IIGJ assures protection to complainants and witnesses against any form of retaliation, threats or intimidation. Any retaliation against complainants or witnesses will be treated as a separate offence and dealt with accordingly. 

9. Awareness and Training

IIGJ is committed to promoting awareness of the POSH Act and related policies among employees, students, and stakeholders through: 

• Regular training sessions and workshops. 

• Mandatory inclusion of the POSH policy in the induction programmes for new employees and students. 

• Dissemination of information through emails, posters and official notifications. 
  
  

10. Review of Policy

This policy shall be reviewed annually to ensure compliance with the POSH Act and other relevant laws. Any changes or updates will be communicated to all stakeholders. 

11. Contact Information

For any queries or to file a complaint, please contact the Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) at [Email Address] or [Phone Number].