1. Introduction

Sammaan Foundation is committed to creating a safe, respectful, and inclusive work environment for all employees, volunteers, and stakeholders. This policy aims to prevent and address any form of sexual harassment at the workplace in accordance with the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition, and Redressal) Act, 2013.

2. Scope

This policy applies to:

  • All employees (full-time, part-time, contractual, interns, and volunteers).
  • All individuals associated with Sammaan Foundation, including vendors, consultants, and visitors.
  • All premises, including offices, old age homes, field locations, and virtual workspaces.

3. Definition of Sexual Harassment

Sexual harassment includes but is not limited to

  • Unwelcome physical contact or advances.
  • Demand or request for sexual favors
  • Sexually colored remarks, jokes, or gestures.
  • Display of explicit material in any form
  • Any other unwelcome verbal, non-verbal, or physical conduct of a sexual nature.

4. Internal Complaints Committee (ICC), Sammaan Foundation

To address complaints, Sammaan Foundation has constituted an Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) comprising:

  • A Presiding Officer (a senior female employee).
  • At least two employees (ensuring diversity and neutrality).
  • An external member (from an NGO or legal background).

5. Complaint Filing Process

  • Any affected person may file a written complaint with the ICC within three months of the incident.
  • Complaints can be emailed to icc@sammaan.ngo or submitted in writing to the designated ICC member
  • The complainant’s identity will be kept strictly confidential.

6. Redressal Process

  • The ICC will conduct an impartial investigation within 90 days of receiving the complaint.
  • Both parties will have an opportunity to present their case.
  • If sexual harassment is proven, disciplinary action, including warning, suspension, or termination, will be taken.
  • If the complaint is found to be false with malicious intent, disciplinary action may be taken against the complainant.

7. Awareness and Training

  • Regular awareness sessions and training will be conducted for employees and volunteers.
  • A copy of this policy will be shared with all employees and displayed at the workplace

8. Confidentiality and Protection

  • All complaints and investigations will be handled with the utmost confidentiality.
  • No retaliation will be tolerated against any person reporting harassment in good faith.

9. Conclusion

Sammaan Foundation upholds a zero-tolerance policy towards sexual harassment and is dedicated to fostering a workplace free from discrimination and misconduct.

For queries or complaints, contact: icc@sammaan.ngo