Patna: Ahead of International Women’s Day, the Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) of AIIMS Patna organised an awareness workshop on the prevention of sexual harassment in the workplace. Held on March 7, the session aimed to promote gender sensitivity and strengthen awareness about maintaining a safe, inclusive and respectful professional environment.
The programme was conducted with the guidance of Executive Director Prof (Brig) Dr Raju Agarwal. Opening the event, Prof (Dr) Pritanjali Singh, chairperson of the Internal Complaints Committee, welcomed participants and emphasised the importance of awareness and shared responsibility in ensuring workplace safety.
Several senior officials and guests attended the workshop, including Prof Dr Umesh Bhadani, in-charge executive director of AIIMS Patna; Dr Sanjay Pandey, in-charge dean of academics and dean of research; Dr Amit Raj, in-charge medical superintendent; Dr Rathish Nair, principal of the College of Nursing; and Anju Talukdar, founder trustee of The Right’s Mission, who participated as a resource faculty member. Shindu Dev, an ICC member, was also present during the programme.
During the interactive session, speakers discussed key provisions of the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013, commonly known as the POSH Act. The discussion covered how to identify inappropriate behaviour, the mechanisms for reporting complaints and the role of institutional systems in addressing grievances effectively and sensitively.
Addressing the gathering, Pritanjali Singh reiterated the institution’s commitment to maintaining a workplace that is safe and free from harassment. Speakers noted that ensuring a secure and supportive work environment is essential for safeguarding dignity, equality and productivity within institutions.
The workshop saw active participation from faculty members, staff and trainees, many of whom engaged in discussions and shared views on building a professional culture that is respectful and harassment-free.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Prof Dr Mukta Agrawal, an ICC member, who expressed appreciation to the speakers, organisers and participants for contributing to what she described as an insightful and impactful session.
