Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is meant by "gender concerns"?

Gender concerns refer to issues related to equality, dignity, inclusion, safety, and fair treatment of all individuals, irrespective of their gender identity or expression.

2. What is the role of the Committee for Gender Concerns (CGC)?

The CGC promotes a safe, inclusive, and gender-sensitive environment by addressing complaints related to gender-based discrimination, harassment, and other concerns, while also conducting awareness and sensitization programmes.

3. Who can approach the CGC?

Any student, faculty member, staff member, research scholar, contractual employee, intern, or visitor who experiences or witnesses a gender-related concern within the institution may approach the CGC.

4. What types of issues can be reported to the CGC?

The CGC deals with issues such as gender-based discrimination, bullying or intimidation based on gender, inappropriate comments or behaviour, stalking, unwanted communication, and any conduct creating a hostile or unsafe environment.

5. What is sexual harassment?

Sexual harassment includes any unwelcome physical, verbal, non-verbal, or online conduct of a sexual nature that violates a person's dignity or creates an intimidating, hostile, or offensive environment. sexual harassment of girls/women comes under the purview of the ICC (icc@iith.ac.in), which is a statutory body and works at maintaining POSH norms.

6. Can I file a complaint if the incident happened online?

Yes. Online harassment through emails, social media, messaging platforms, video calls, or other digital means may also constitute a gender concern if it occurs in connection with the institution.

7. Is my complaint kept confidential?

Yes. The CGC treats complaints with confidentiality to the extent permitted by law and institutional policies. Information is shared only with those directly involved in the inquiry process.

8. Can someone else file a complaint on behalf of a victim?

In certain circumstances, a complaint may be submitted by a representative or a witness, particularly if the affected person is unable to file it themselves, subject to applicable institutional rules.

9. Is there a time limit for submitting a complaint?

The applicable time limits are governed by the institution's policies and relevant laws. It is advisable to report the incident as early as possible.

10. What happens after I submit a complaint?

The CGC acknowledges the complaint, conducts a preliminary assessment, follows the prescribed inquiry process, and recommends appropriate action in accordance with institutional regulations.

11. Can I seek guidance without filing a formal complaint?

Yes. Individuals may approach the CGC for confidential guidance, counselling, or clarification before deciding whether to submit a formal complaint.

12. Will I face retaliation for reporting a concern?

Retaliation against anyone who reports a genuine concern or participates in an inquiry is prohibited. Any act of retaliation may itself be treated as misconduct.

13. What should I do if I witness gender-based harassment?

If it is safe to do so, support the affected person, encourage them to seek assistance, and report the incident to the appropriate authority or the CGC.

14. Does the CGC conduct awareness programmes?

Yes. The CGC regularly organizes workshops, seminars, training sessions, and awareness campaigns to promote gender sensitivity, equality, and respectful behaviour.

15. Does the CGC provide counselling support?

The CGC may facilitate access to counselling and other support services, either directly or through designated institutional resources, depending on the institution's provisions.

16. What should I include while filing a complaint?

You should provide your name and contact details (where required), the date, time and location of the incident, a description of the incident, the names of persons involved (if known), and details of any witnesses or supporting evidence.

17. Can anonymous complaints be submitted?

Anonymous complaints may be accepted in accordance with institutional policy. However, providing your identity may help facilitate a fair and effective inquiry.

18. What are the responsibilities of every member of the institution?

Every member is expected to treat others with dignity and respect, maintain a gender-sensitive environment, refrain from discriminatory or harassing behaviour, cooperate during inquiries, and promote equality and inclusion.

19. What should I do in case of an emergency?

If you are in immediate danger, contact campus security, emergency services, or the nearest responsible authority first. You may subsequently report the matter to the CGC.

20. Where can I contact the CGC?

You may contact the CGC through the official email address, CGC Email