Anti-Harassment and Anti-Abuse Policy Sruthi Rangarajan September 7, 2023

We are dedicated to providing a respectful and safe environment for everyone. We have a zero-tolerance policy for harassment, including sexual harassment. Here’s what you need to know:

What is a Harassment?

Harassment includes any unwelcome behaviour, comments, or actions that create an uncomfortable, unsafe, or disrespectful atmosphere. This includes jokes, comments, or any form of bullying that makes someone feel bad.

Sexual Harassment Defined

Sexual harassment is any unwelcome sexual advance, stalking, requests for sexual favors, or other verbal, physical, or visual conduct of a sexual nature. It can also include creating a hostile or intimidating environment based on someone’s gender.

Everyone is Included

This policy applies to everyone in the Think Digital Community, whether you’re a member, mentor, volunteer, college club representative, visitor or attending any event conducted by the community. It’s our shared responsibility to treat each other with kindness and respect.

Reporting

If you experience harassment, especially sexual harassment, please report it immediately. You can fill out the Google form provided, and if you wish, you can make an anonymous report. Please note that anonymous complaints may only be submitted for incidents of harassment as defined in the policy and not for cases of sexual harassment. In such cases, the victim may choose to issue a warning to the offender as the available course of action.

Furthermore, if the complainant chooses to take legal action, they may proceed accordingly. 

Legal Complaints

Victims have the right to file a legal complaint if needed, and the community does not prohibit this action. We respect your legal rights and encourage you to take appropriate steps if you feel it is necessary.

Confidentiality

We will handle your report with the utmost care and confidentiality, sharing details only with those who need to know for the investigation.

Investigation

We take all reports seriously and will investigate thoroughly, ensuring everyone’s voice is heard. Our goal is to find a fair solution.

No Retaliation

We strictly forbid any retaliation against those who report harassment or participate in the investigation. Your well-being matters to us.

Consequences

If harassment is confirmed, the person found guilty of harassment or the person who makes false accusations will be expelled from the community. They will not be permitted to attend any future events organised by the community. In cases where the offence is considered minor and the community deems a warning appropriate, such a course of action may be taken.

Counselling Support

We care about your well-being. If you’ve experienced harassment, counselling support will be provided to help you cope and recover.

Review

We regularly review and update this policy to keep it effective and relevant.

The Committee

The Committee has been established to ensure that any incidence of harassment is dealt with appropriately, sensitively, and expeditiously. The Committee comprises individuals who are not in higher ranks within the community, and it also includes members from outside the community, ensuring impartiality and fairness in the process. The majority of the committee members shall be from outside the community.

If you have any questions or concerns about this policy, feel free to write to us at: antiharassment.td@gmail.com

 

Date: 06/09/2023 [Date of Policy Implementation]