A workshop on POCSO, was conducted at the Greenway Modern School, Dilshad Garden on 28th March 2025 which addressed the critical issue of child sexual abuse with a comprehensive approach, aiming to equip all the teachers and staff with the necessary knowledge and tools for prevention and intervention. Notably, all the teachers of Greenway Modern School, Dilshad Garden and Greenway Modern School, Jhilmil attended this crucial session. The session began with the welcome of Ms. Vandana Banga, a CBSE resource person by the Senior Coordinator, Ms. Anuja Jaitley.
Ms. Banga began by setting the ambience with a carefully selected movie clip, designed to illustrate the subtle and often hidden nature of abuse, immediately capturing the audience's attention and underscoring the gravity of the topic. This served to set the expectations of the workshop, emphasizing that it would delve into sensitive but essential information. The session then moved to define sexual abuse, clearly outlining its various forms, including physical, emotional, and digital exploitation, and dispelling common misconceptions. Recent surveys and statistics were presented to highlight the prevalence of child sexual abuse.
Ms. Banga then detailed the practical aspects of POCSO implementation within a school setting. This included orienting the teachers and staff on their roles and responsibilities in identifying and responding to suspected cases. She emphasized the importance of creating a safe and trusting environment where children feel comfortable reporting abuse. Important policies, such as mandatory reporting protocols and confidentiality guidelines, were explained, ensuring that all attendees understood the legal and ethical obligations. A clear and concise reporting mechanism was outlined, detailing the steps to be taken when a suspicion arises, including contacting the appropriate authorities and providing support to the affected child.
Following the POCSO segment, the workshop transitioned to the POSH Act, Ms. Vandana Banga explained that the POSH Act was initially conceived and implemented primarily to address the widespread and systemic sexual harassment faced by women in the workplace. However, the scope of the Act was subsequently broadened to include men as well, reflecting a growing understanding that sexual harassment is not limited to one gender.
The workshop then delved into the core principles of the POSH Act, outlining its purpose as the prevention, prohibition, and redressal of sexual harassment. Prevention was emphasized through the promotion of awareness and training, aimed at creating a culture of respect and understanding. Prohibition involved defining and identifying various forms of sexual harassment, including unwelcome physical contact, verbal or non-verbal conduct of a sexual nature, and the creation of a hostile work environment. Redressal focused on establishing clear and accessible mechanisms for reporting and addressing complaints, ensuring that victims have access to justice and support.
A key component of the POSH Act, the Internal Committee (IC), was thoroughly discussed. Ms. Banga detailed the ICC's composition, functions, and responsibilities, emphasizing its role in conducting fair and impartial inquiries. She also explained the role of the Local Committee (LC), which is relevant in scenarios where the workplace lacks an IC, or the complaint is against the employer themselves. The workshop provided guidance on the procedures for filing complaints, conducting investigations, and implementing corrective actions.
An interactive session formed a crucial part of the POSH segment, allowing teachers and staff to engage in open dialogue and address their doubts and queries. This facilitated a deeper understanding of the Act's provisions and clarified any ambiguities. Participants raised practical questions about real-life scenarios, seeking guidance on how to navigate complex situations. Ms. Banga provided clear and concise answers, drawing on her expertise and experience to offer practical solutions. This interactive approach ensured that all attendees felt comfortable asking questions and gaining a comprehensive understanding of their rights and responsibilities under the POSH Act, ultimately contributing to a more informed and empowered workforce.
The Principal of the school appreciated and emphasized that these kind of workshops must be taken at regular intervals.