Media Release

Udupi, Oct 16: The College Internal Compliance Committee, in association with Women Empowerment Cell of Shri Madhwa Vadiraja Institute of Technology and Management (SMVITM), organized a session on 'What Constitutes Sexual Harassment?' for the students of the college on October 14. The resource person was Preethi Harishraj, assistant professor, Vaikunta Baliga College of Law, Udupi.

Preethi Harishraj explained different types of harassments and explained the importance of having College Internal Complaince Committee in all the organizations.

In her talk, she said that sexual harassment is unwanted, unpleasant, embarrassing, or threatening behavior including sexual content. It can take place in person or online, and it can be written, verbal, or physical. Sexual harassment can happen to anyone, regardless of gender. Sexual harassment may qualify as discrimination if it occurs in a place of employment, a school, or a university. She also said that the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace Act was passed in 2013 (POSH Act). She highlighted about the Vishaka guidelines which were already in place. Preethi also explained how to frame the CICC and its responsibilities. CICC coordinator Dr Lolita Priya Castelino gave a bird’s eye view on College Internal complaints committee and its functions at Institute level. It was an interactive session and very informative.

More than 400 students participated and benefited by the programme. The session was lively and interactive. The CICC members, WEC members, faculty, staff, and students were present for the programme. The programne was compered by Ramya Deshpande, student of electronics and communication engineering department.

Dr Thirumaleshwara Bhat, principal of the college supported and guided in organizing the programme.