Robust policies and practices are embedded within the organization to foster a safe, respectful, and inclusive workplace for all employees and visitors. The Prevention of Harassment Policy enforces a zero-tolerance approach to all forms of harassment, including sexual, racial, and other types, and outlines clear procedures to prevent, report, and address incidents effectively.
The organization strictly adheres to the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition, and Redressal) Act, 2013, ensuring a gender-sensitive, inclusive, and legally compliant work environment.
To uphold a harassment-free workplace:
✅ Strict confidentiality is maintained for all complaints, with zero tolerance for retaliation.
✅ Multiple reporting channels are provided, including anonymous options and direct contact with the Internal Complaints Committee (ICC).
✅ Awareness programs are conducted to educate employees on their rights and responsibilities.
✅ Strict consequences are enforced for policy violations, including disciplinary actions or legal proceedings, if necessary.
Employees and leadership are encouraged to actively uphold and promote a culture of dignity and respect, building a workplace based on equality, mutual respect, and inclusivity.
A respectful workplace is the foundation of a thriving organization, where every individual deserves to work in an environment free from harassment. Dignity, equality, and mutual respect are non-negotiable, and a safe, inclusive culture is key to fostering innovation and unlocking potential. Harassment has no place in the workplace, and a zero-tolerance policy ensures that all employees feel empowered and supported. By maintaining a culture of respect and accountability, an environment is created where everyone is treated with fairness, ensuring that safety and respect are at the core of all interactions.
Fostering a workplace where every individual is treated with dignity, respect, and fairness is paramount. An inclusive and supportive environment is created to ensure individuals feel secure and valued, free from discrimination, harassment, or retaliation. A zero-tolerance approach to sexual harassment is upheld, ensuring the well-being of all employees, vendors, and stakeholders.
This applies to all employees, including full-time workers, interns, and managers, regardless of their location or role. Fundamental standards of integrity remain consistent across all regions and contexts.
This covers harassment occurring:
• In the workplace.
• During work-related activities.
• In any context connected to the work environment.
• In digital communications.
Compliance with legal requirements, including the POSH Act, is upheld, and the Annual POSH Compliance Report is submitted and maintained with the Karnataka State Commission for Women.
A commitment is made to ensure that such behaviors are not tolerated, creating a safe and respectful environment for all employees.
Sexual harassment includes, but is not limited to:
• Unwelcome sexual advances, requests, or demands tied to employment terms or career progression.
• Unwelcome physical contact or advances.
• Verbal or physical conduct that fosters a hostile work environment, including inappropriate remarks, jokes, or gestures.
• Eve-teasing, molestation, stalking, or any act that undermines an individual’s dignity.
• Displaying explicit content in physical or digital form.
• Any other behavior that hampers an individual’s career opportunities or creates a hostile and uncomfortable work environment.
A commitment is made to foster an atmosphere of equal opportunity and freedom from harassment, with a focus on empowering women employees.
The following behaviors are strictly prohibited:
• Unwelcome sexual advances or conduct-whether visual, verbal, or physical.
• Sexual favors, sexually inappropriate remarks, and other inappropriate behavior.
• Acts such as sharing obscene material, sending inappropriate emails, or making offensive jokes.
• Holding one-on-one meetings in non-official locations without consent.
• Retaliation against individuals who report harassment or participate in investigations.
A dedicated and empowered Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) operates to address and resolve harassment-related grievances, ensuring a safe and respectful workplace.
Composition
• A senior woman employee.
• At least two other employees who demonstrate a strong commitment to
women’s rights and anti-harassment practices.
Responsibilities
• Conduct prompt and impartial investigations into complaints.
• Recommend disciplinary actions, if necessary.
• Providing support, guidance, and counseling to individuals impacted by harassment.
A structured and transparent process ensures the effective handling of harassment-related complaints while maintaining fairness for all parties involved.
Filing a Complaint: Submissions can be made via writing, email, phone, or direct reporting to the Complaints Committee or HR department within three months of the incident.
Initial Review: The Internal Complaints Committee meets the complainant within four working days.
Investigation: A comprehensive investigation ensures an unbiased review of all concerns.
Resolution: Complaints are addressed and resolved within 90 days.
Actions: Recommendations may include disciplinary measures, counseling, or other necessary interventions.
Addressing harassment early prevents escalation. Consider informing the alleged harasser immediately, either verbally or in writing, that their behavior is unwelcome. Early intervention enables correction if the person is unaware of the offense. If the issue continues, escalation to the appropriate authorities ensures resolution. Clear documentation supports transparency, while confidentiality safeguards dignity.
If direct communication fails, reporting to the Internal Complaints Committee ensures timely action. A confidential investigation follows, allowing all parties to share perspectives. Fairness and dignity remain prioritized throughout the process. Necessary corrective actions are taken when required. Proper documentation strengthens transparency and accountability.
Maintaining detailed records of incidents, including dates, times, behavior descriptions, and individuals involved, strengthens accountability. Clear documentation ensures transparency and supports thorough assessments. Secure storage of records protects confidentiality and upholds integrity. Consistent monitoring enables effective resolution and prevents recurrence.
All proceedings and findings related to harassment complaints are handled with the highest level of confidentiality, ensuring that sensitive information is protected at all stages. Retaliation against individuals who report harassment or participate in investigations is strictly prohibited and will be addressed swiftly and effectively. Additional safeguards are put in place to prevent victimization or any form of retribution against the complainant, ensuring a secure, fair, and supportive environment for all involved. The process is transparent, and any necessary corrective actions will be taken promptly to uphold the integrity and safety of the workplace.
Diversity, equity, and inclusion are embedded across all aspects of the organization, including recruitment, training, and career advancement. Policies ensure that no employee faces discrimination based on gender, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, disability, or any other protected characteristic.
Harassment, including sexual harassment, bullying, and any behavior creating a hostile work environment, is strictly prohibited. This includes physical, verbal, or visual misconduct. Violations will lead to disciplinary actions, up to and including termination.
Employees are encouraged to report any harassment concerns without fear of retaliation. All reports are taken seriously, investigated promptly, and handled with confidentiality and fairness.
Regular training and assessments are provided to employees and management to recognize, prevent, and address harassment, ensuring a respectful workplace.
Regular training, proactive assessments, and continuous oversight strengthen the ability to recognize, prevent, and address harassment, fostering a respectful and secure workplace.
Together, we can build a workplace where everyone thrives.