Lucknow: Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University (BBAU) organized an awareness programme on “Sexual Harassment at Workplace (UGC Regulations, 2015)” on December 15 under the aegis of the university’s Internal Complaints Committee (ICC). The programme aimed at sensitising students and faculty members about workplace safety, gender equality, and legal provisions related to sexual harassment.
The event was attended by ICC Chairperson Prof. Abha Mishra, along with Dr. Baljeet Srivastava, Dr. Rashida Athar, and ICC student representatives Ms. Rashmi Singh and Ms. Sutithi Hajra. The programme commenced with the lighting of the ceremonial lamp, followed by a welcome address by Prof. Abha Mishra, who outlined the objectives and structure of the awareness session.
Elaborating on the role and functions of the ICC, Prof. Mishra stated that the committee’s primary mandate is to ensure a safe, respectful, and gender-equal environment within the university. She emphasised that apart from addressing complaints, the ICC plays a crucial role in spreading awareness about the rights of women and other vulnerable sections of society. Drawing attention to contemporary challenges, she cautioned participants about cyber crimes in the digital age, particularly the growing misuse of social media and threats such as deepfakes, which can have serious psychological, social, and professional consequences. She urged responsible online behaviour and encouraged reporting of cyber harassment to the appropriate authorities. Prof. Mishra stressed that gender sensitisation is essential to fostering mutual respect, equality, and a healthy work culture.
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Rashida Athar provided detailed information about the ICC and various laws related to women’s safety. She underlined that legal provisions should be used to ensure timely justice and dignity for victims, and not be misused. She referred to key legislations including the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013, the IT Act, 2000, the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005, the Vishaka Guidelines, and relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code, highlighting their role in women’s protection and empowerment. She further emphasised that the ICC functions with impartiality, sensitivity, and confidentiality to ensure fair resolution of complaints.
Dr. Baljeet Srivastava, Dr. Jyoti Pandey, Dr. Renu Pandey, and student representatives Rashmi Singh and Sutithi Hajra also shared their perspectives on workplace safety, gender awareness, and the importance of institutional mechanisms like the ICC.
A dedicated discussion session was organised, during which students actively participated by sharing experiences and suggestions related to women’s safety and gender sensitisation. The interaction enhanced awareness about relevant laws and reinforced the message that the objective of the ICC and women-centric legal provisions is to create a safe, respectful, and just academic environment.
The programme witnessed the presence of faculty members, research scholars, and students, and concluded with a collective reaffirmation of the university’s commitment to promoting dignity, equality, and safety on campus.
