An institution’s Internal Complaint Committee (ICC), often mandated by law or institutional policy, is responsible for addressing complaints about sexual harassment and discrimination within the institution. Here’s a detailed overview of its functions and responsibilities:

1. Addressing Sexual Harassment Complaints: The primary function of the ICC is to receive, inquire into, and redress complaints of sexual harassment. This includes complaints filed by students, faculty, staff, or any other institution member against individuals associated with the institution.
2. Creating a Safe Environment: The ICC works towards creating a safe and respectful environment within the institution by enforcing policies and procedures prohibiting sexual harassment and discrimination. This includes raising awareness about what constitutes sexual harassment and promoting a culture of zero tolerance towards such behavior.
3. Receiving Complaints: The ICC serves as the first point of contact for individuals who wish to report incidents of sexual harassment or discrimination. It ensures that complaints are received sensitively and confidentially, respecting the complainant’s privacy.
4. Conducting Inquiries: Upon receiving a complaint, the ICC thoroughly inquires. This may involve gathering evidence, interviewing parties involved, and taking statements from witnesses to determine the facts of the case.
5. Providing Support to Complainants: The ICC supports and assists complainants throughout the inquiry process. This includes counseling services, legal guidance, and protection from retaliation or victimization.
6. Ensuring Due Process: The ICC ensures that all parties involved in a complaint are afforded due process rights. This includes the right to be heard, the right to present evidence, and the right to a fair and impartial investigation.
7. Making Recommendations: Based on the inquiry’s findings, the ICC may recommend appropriate action to address the complaint. This could include disciplinary action against the accused, implementing preventive measures, or providing remedies to the complainant.
8. Monitoring Compliance: The ICC monitors compliance with its recommendations and promptly ensures corrective actions are taken. It may also conduct periodic reviews of institutional policies and procedures to ensure their effectiveness in preventing sexual harassment and discrimination.
9. Training and Awareness: The ICC organizes training programs and awareness campaigns to educate members of the institution about their rights and responsibilities related to sexual harassment and discrimination. This includes training for faculty, staff, and students on how to prevent, identify, and report incidents of harassment.
10. Maintaining Records: The ICC maintains accurate and confidential records of all complaints, inquiries, and actions taken. This helps ensure transparency, accountability, and continuity in addressing issues related to sexual harassment and discrimination.