Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi
Udupi, Sep 21: A person is never responsible for another individual’s inappropriate behaviour, and factors such as clothing, friendship, social media use, being alone with someone, accepting a ride or being polite do not imply consent for sexual conduct, said Dr Divya Rani Pradeep, member of the District POSH Committee, Udupi.
She was speaking at a one-day workshop on the Prevention of Sexual Harassment (POSH) Act organised at Dr G Shankar Government Women’s First Grade College and Postgraduate Study Centre, Ajjarakadu, Udupi, on Saturday.
Dr Divya Rani said that a written complaint should be submitted to the Internal Committee (IC), following which all concerned parties must be given an opportunity to be heard. She added that proceedings should be conducted in accordance with the law and institutional rules.
Kannada writer Vasanthi Shetty Brahmavar said the challenges faced by women have changed significantly over the years. She noted that while women earlier faced domestic abuse rooted in social and cultural beliefs, present-day concerns include rape, murder and various forms of sexual harassment. Creating a safe environment at home, workplaces and in society has therefore become essential, she said.
Programme convenor and Women’s Grievance Redressal Committee coordinator Kavitha said sensitising people of all genders is essential to preventing sexual harassment. Prevention, prohibition and redressal are the three key components in addressing sexual harassment, she said.
Principal Prof Nikethana, who presided over the programme, stressed the importance of such initiatives in creating a fearless and safe environment. She said promoting mutual respect, awareness and accountability within the institution was important.
Prof Krishna Bhat, head of the department of commerce, and Udupi police station constables Shruthi and Rashmi were present.
NSS programme officer Rakesh compered the programme, while assistant professor of English Rekha S N welcomed the gathering. Assistant professors Ramya V and Dr Safiya introduced the guests, and Sharath Kumar proposed the vote of thanks. Ramya K Aithal led the invocation.
The programme was jointly organised by the Women’s Grievance Redressal Committee, Youth Red Cross Unit, NSS and Internal Quality Assurance Cell of the college.
Committee meeting held
Prior to the workshop, the Women’s Grievance Redressal Committee held a meeting under the chairmanship of principal Prof Nikethana to discuss issues faced by women on the campus and explore measures to address them.
Committee members, including two women police constables from Udupi police station and a member of the District POSH Committee, participated in the meeting.