Sexual Harassment

Sexual Harassment Policy – Drishti Foundation

At Drishti Foundation, we believe that every individual has the right to work, volunteer, or collaborate in an environment that is safe, respectful, and free from all forms of sexual harassment. For the past 27 successful years, our organization has worked tirelessly at the grassroots level in public policy, research and development, environmental protection, and higher education. We understand that the quality of our work depends on the integrity and dignity of our workplace. That is why we have a zero-tolerance policy for sexual harassment in any form.

Our Commitment to a Safe and Respectful Environment

The Drishti Foundation is committed to creating and maintaining a work environment in which all employees, volunteers, interns, contractors, and partners are treated with dignity and respect. Sexual harassment is not only unlawful but also contrary to our values. It undermines morale, disrupts productivity, and erodes trust among team members and stakeholders. We aim to foster a culture of openness, accountability, and mutual respect, ensuring that everyone can contribute fully and confidently to our mission.

Definition of Sexual Harassment

Sexual harassment refers to any unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, or other verbal, non-verbal, or physical conduct of a sexual nature that affects an individual’s work performance or creates an intimidating, hostile, or offensive environment. It can occur in various forms, including but not limited to:

  • Verbal Conduct – Sexual jokes, suggestive comments, inappropriate remarks about appearance, repeated unwelcome invitations, or sexual innuendos.
  • Non-Verbal Conduct – Display of sexually explicit images, gestures, staring, or sending inappropriate messages.
  • Physical Conduct – Unwanted touching, hugging, patting, blocking someone’s movement, or physical assault.
  • Quid Pro Quo Harassment – Offering benefits, promotions, or advantages in exchange for sexual favors or threatening adverse action for refusal.

This policy applies to all forms of sexual harassment, whether it occurs within the workplace, at work-related events, during official travel, or in any setting connected to Drishti Foundation’s work.

Scope of the Policy

The Sexual Harassment Policy applies to all individuals associated with Drishti Foundation, including employees, board members, consultants, volunteers, interns, vendors, and partners. It also covers interactions with beneficiaries, stakeholders, and community members where our representatives are involved.

Legal Framework and Compliance

Drishti Foundation fully complies with national and international laws, including the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, and follows guidelines set forth by relevant legal authorities. Our policy aligns with human rights principles and organizational ethics to ensure complete protection and fairness for all.

Reporting Sexual Harassment

We encourage individuals to report any incident of sexual harassment promptly. Concerns can be reported to:

  • The Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) via written complaint.
  • A dedicated email address: harassmentreport@drishtifoundation.com.
  • The HR Department or designated Sexual Harassment Officer.
  • Directly to the Executive Director or Board Chair in severe cases.

Anonymous complaints are accepted, but providing detailed information will enable a more effective investigation.

Internal Complaints Committee (ICC)

As required by law, Drishti Foundation has constituted an Internal Complaints Committee to address cases of sexual harassment. The ICC is composed of trained members, including female representatives, external experts, and senior staff. The ICC’s responsibilities include:

  • Receiving and reviewing complaints.
  • Conducting impartial and timely investigations.
  • Ensuring confidentiality and protection against retaliation.
  • Recommending corrective actions or disciplinary measures.

Investigation Process

When a complaint is received, the ICC will:

  1. Acknowledge receipt of the complaint within seven working days.
  2. Conduct a preliminary review to determine the validity of the complaint.
  3. Interview the complainant, the accused, and any witnesses.
  4. Gather and examine relevant evidence.
  5. Complete the investigation within 90 days, as per legal requirements.

After the investigation, the ICC will submit a report with findings and recommendations to management, which will take appropriate action, including disciplinary measures where necessary.

Protection Against Retaliation

Drishti Foundation strictly prohibits retaliation against anyone who reports sexual harassment or participates in an investigation. Retaliation may include demotion, dismissal, threats, intimidation, or harassment. Any act of retaliation will result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination.

Confidentiality

All complaints, investigations, and proceedings will be handled with the highest level of confidentiality. Information will only be disclosed on a need-to-know basis and as required by law.

Support for Complainants

We understand that reporting sexual harassment can be emotionally difficult. Therefore, Drishti Foundation offers:

  • Counseling Services – Access to professional counselors for emotional support.
  • Workplace Adjustments – Temporary changes to work assignments or locations, if necessary.
  • Legal Assistance – Guidance on legal rights and procedures for complainants seeking formal justice.

Training and Awareness

Prevention is central to our approach. We conduct regular workshops, seminars, and online training sessions for employees, volunteers, and partners to raise awareness about sexual harassment, respectful workplace behavior, and reporting mechanisms. These sessions are mandatory for all staff and are updated annually to reflect changes in law and best practices.

Preventive Measures

Our preventive approach includes:

  • Displaying the Sexual Harassment Policy at all office locations.
  • Providing information about the ICC and reporting channels to all new members during induction.
  • Encouraging open dialogue and feedback on workplace safety and culture.
  • Regular monitoring and review of workplace interactions to identify potential risks.

Responsibility of All Members

Creating a harassment-free workplace is a shared responsibility. All members of Drishti Foundation are expected to:

  • Treat others with respect and dignity.
  • Avoid behavior that could be perceived as harassing.
  • Report incidents promptly and honestly.
  • Cooperate fully during investigations.

Consequences of Misconduct

If the ICC concludes that sexual harassment has occurred, disciplinary actions may include:

  • Written warning.
  • Mandatory training or counseling.
  • Suspension without pay.
  • Termination of employment or contract.
  • Legal action in accordance with applicable laws.

False or Malicious Complaints

While we encourage all individuals to report genuine concerns, making false or malicious complaints is a serious offense and will result in disciplinary action.

Policy Review and Continuous Improvement

Drishti Foundation reviews the Sexual Harassment Policy annually to ensure it remains effective, legally compliant, and aligned with our organizational values. Feedback from employees and stakeholders is actively sought to improve our preventive and response mechanisms.

Why This Policy Matters

As an organization dedicated to social development, education, public policy, and environmental conservation, our credibility depends on the trust of our people and partners. A safe and respectful work environment enables creativity, collaboration, and impact. Addressing sexual harassment with seriousness ensures that our 27 years of work continue to be guided by ethics, equality, and justice.

Our Promise

Drishti Foundation promises that every complaint will be heard, every individual will be respected, and every incident will be addressed with fairness. We will never compromise on the safety, dignity, and well-being of our team and stakeholders.

Conclusion

Sexual harassment has no place at Drishti Foundation. Our zero-tolerance approach, robust reporting mechanisms, and preventive strategies are designed to protect every individual associated with our organization. By standing together against harassment, we uphold the values that have guided our work for nearly three decades—integrity, respect, equality, and compassion. We invite everyone in our community to join us in ensuring that Drishti Foundation remains a safe, respectful, and empowering space for all.

“Reach out to explore collaborations, discover our initiatives, and contribute to creating meaningful, lasting change.”

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrishtiFoundationTrust/

Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/drishtifoundation

Youtube : https://www.youtube.com/drishtifoundationtrust

Linkedin : https://www.linkedin.com/company/drishtifoundationtrust

Twitter : https://www.twitter.com/dftindia