SRINAGAR, AUGUST 20: A two-day workshop on exploring the strategies for prevention, support and redressal in sexual harassment cases at workplaces commenced today at Government College for Women (GCW), M.A. Road, here.
The 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 was the chief guest at the inaugural function of the workshop. In his plenary address, Prof. Mobin emphasized the importance of strengthening Internal Complaints Committees in higher education institutions to create a safe and inclusive environment. He highlighted the need for modern tools and technology to enhance accessibility, transparency, and credibility in addressing sexual harassment cases.
Prof. Mobin shared experiences from some institutions, stressing the importance of awareness about what constitutes sexual harassment and the need for faith in the system. He suggested integrating digital platforms, online reporting mechanisms, and case tracking systems to make ICCs more robust and impactful.
In her keynote address, Director WISCOMP, Dr.Meenakshi Gopinath stressed on the importance of developing a new language and approach to address issues of gender and equality, moving beyond traditional patriarchal structures. She highlighted the role of education in empowering women and promoting social change, citing examples of women who have made significant contributions in various fields.
Earlier in her welcome address, Principal of the host college, Prof. Yasmeen Farooq emphasized the importance of creating a zero-tolerance campus environment where issues of harassment are addressed promptly. She highlighted the college’s commitment to fostering a culture of sensitivity and awareness through training programs and workshops. Prof. Yasmeen stressed the need for collective effort and collaboration to ensure a safe and supportive ecosystem for all students and faculty. She expressed gratitude to the ICC committee for organizing the workshop and hoped that the deliberations would lead to effective strategies for prevention, support, and redressal of grievances.
Dean Academic Affairs, Cluster University Srinagar, Prof. Nazir Ahmad Simnani congratulated the college for organising the workshop and hoped that the deliberations will help strengthenthe Internal Committees. Earlier, Presiding Officer and senior faculty member of the host college, Prof. Majida Maqbool briefed the audience about the aims and objectives of the two-day workshop.