The Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) in government colleges of Odisha is established as per the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition, and Redressal) Act, 2013 and the guidelines issued by the University Grants Commission (UGC). It ensures a safe and harassment-free environment for students, faculty, and staff.

? Composition of Internal Complaints Committee (ICC)

A typical ICC in a Government College in Odisha consists of the following members:

1. Presiding Officer – A senior female faculty member from the college.
2. Faculty Members – Two or more faculty members (preferably one male and one female).
3. Non-Teaching Staff Representative – A member from the administrative or support staff.
4. Student Representative – A student (preferably a female) from senior batches (UG/PG).
5. External Member – A representative from an NGO or legal expert with knowledge of gender issues.

? The Principal of the college ensures the ICC functions independently and fairly.

Functions & Responsibilities of ICC

1. Prevention & Awareness

✅ Conduct workshops and awareness programs on gender sensitization and laws.
✅ Educate students and staff about sexual harassment and complaint mechanisms.
✅ Display ICC guidelines on notice boards, college websites, and student handbooks.

2. Complaint Redressal

✅ Receive and address complaints of sexual harassment or gender discrimination.
✅ Ensure confidentiality and a fair inquiry process.
✅ Recommend disciplinary action based on findings.

3. Investigation Process

✅ Conduct a fair and impartial inquiry into complaints.
✅ Take statements from the complainant, accused, and witnesses.
✅ Submit a report with recommendations to the Principal or Higher Education Department.

4. Support for Victims

✅ Provide necessary counseling and legal assistance.
✅ Ensure that the complainant does not face retaliation or victimization.

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⚖ Legal Framework & Compliance

• ICC follows the Sexual Harassment Act, 2013 and UGC Guidelines (2015).
• Reports must be submitted annually to the Higher Education Department, Odisha.
• Colleges must comply with National Commission for Women (NCW) & UGC directives.

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? How to File a Complaint?

1️⃣ A complaint must be submitted in writing to the ICC Presiding Officer.
2️⃣ The complainant’s identity is kept confidential.
3️⃣ The ICC conducts an inquiry within a fixed timeframe (usually 90 days).
4️⃣ Based on findings, appropriate action is recommended.

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? Key Takeaways

✔ Every Government College in Odisha must have an Internal Complaints Committee (ICC).
✔ It ensures a safe and harassment-free environment for students and staff.
✔ ICC handles complaints related to sexual harassment and gender discrimination.
✔ The committee follows UGC, Govt. of Odisha, and NCW guidelines.