CUO observes 8th Anniversary of Notification of Sexual Harassment Act 2013

Koraput: The Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) of the Central University of Odisha organized a webinar on ‘Sexual Harassment of Women At Workplace Act’ at its main campus, Sunabeda on 9 December 2021 to commemorate the 8^th Anniversary of Notification of Sexual Harassment Act in 2013.

Prof. Sharat Kumar Palita, Vice Chancellor (I/c) CUO, inaugurating the webinar discussed on the status of women from ancient times to the present day. He also mentioned the epoch-making judgement related to gender. He stressed upon the fact that attitude and mindset of the society needs to undergo a see change towards women.

Ms. Namrata Chadha, Chairperson of Mahila Adhikar Abhiyan, Bhubaneswar, an eminent lawyer and activist spoke about the historic Vishakha judgement and also the depiction of violence of women in media. She called for sensitization of people in society especially male gender and change in the mindset of parents. Ms. Shyni S., IPS, IG Police, Training, Biju Patnaik State Police Training Academy, Bhubaneswar explained the Act in details. She called for continuous endeavour for all members of society for creating a safe and dignified work atmosphere for women. Ms. V. Krishna Kumari, Former Chairperson ICC and DGM (Chemicals) NALCO, Damanjodi said that strong work ethics, balance and ability to work under pressure are the requirements to counter instances of sexual harassment at work place. Legislations is not enough; change should come from within.

Dr. Anjali Dash, Faculty Member, Department of Economics, Dr. Anindita Nayak, Faculty Member, Department of Anthropology and Ms. Asmita Basu, Ph.D. Scholar, Department of Biodiversity and Conservation of Natural Resources introduced the guests.

Dr. Sony Parhi, Faculty Member, Department of Journalism and Mass Communication, summed up the proceedings of the webinar. Dr. Rudrani Mohanty, Faculty and member ICC proposed the vote of thanks.

Dr. Kakoli Banerjee, Presiding Officer, ICC, CUO chaired the proceedings of the webinar. She discussed the role and importance of ICC towards the creation of a gender- neutral work environment at CUO.