UGC Directs HEIs to Strengthen POSH Act Implementation Nationwide

The University Grants Commission (UGC) has issued a fresh advisory asking all Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) across India to strengthen the implementation of the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013, widely known as the POSH Act. The notice reiterates that colleges and universities hold a legal and moral responsibility to maintain safe and inclusive campuses. Institutions have been reminded to ensure strict compliance by setting up Internal Committees (ICs), improving reporting systems, and conducting awareness programmes.

UGC Highlights Mandatory Establishment of Internal Committees

The Commission has underlined that Internal Committees are essential for handling complaints of harassment within campuses. These committees must function independently, ensure confidentiality, and provide quick and fair redressal. UGC has asked institutions to display IC details prominently so that students and staff know where to report grievances.

Sensitisation and Training Programmes Made Priority

The directive emphasises the need for regular training and sensitisation programmes. UGC stated that awareness on rights, responsibilities, and reporting mechanisms must be imparted to students, faculty, and non-teaching staff to prevent incidents before they occur. Institutions have been urged to conduct workshops, orientation sessions, and gender-sensitisation modules as part of their mandatory compliance.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

UGC has made it clear that failure to comply with the POSH Act framework may attract penalties. Non-compliant institutions risk consequences such as withdrawal of grants and possible removal from the UGC’s recognised list. The Commission highlighted that transparency, timely resolution of complaints, and well-structured prevention mechanisms are central to ensuring accountability.

Focus on Safety, Dignity, and Equality

In its notice, UGC stressed that maintaining women’s safety on campuses contributes directly to national goals for gender equality and empowerment. The advisory states that the academic community has a collective responsibility to uphold dignity, fairness, and non-discrimination in higher education spaces. UGC has urged all HEIs to update their POSH policies, strengthen monitoring systems, and ensure that every campus becomes a safe environment for learning and professional growth. Follow KollegeApply for the latest updates on College Admissions, Courses, Exam Dates, Results, Scholarships, Career Guidance, Education News, and Policy Changes — everything needed to stay ahead in the education journey