Speak up!

Bangalore University asks students to notify varsity authorities if they feel that they are being sexually harassed

Speak up!

Bangalore University asks students to notify varsity authorities if they feel that they are being sexually harassed

The circular instructs that students can evenu00a0 confide in friends if that makes them more comfortable. Representation pic

Stung by the sexual harassment allegations at the University of Mysore, the VC of Bangalore University has decided that it is high time students were educated in guidelines against sexual harassment.

Circulars quoting the University Grants Commission (UGC) will be issued to the 654 colleges falling under jurisdiction of the university by next week, in a bid to educate students on sexual harassment on campus.

VC, N Prabhudev, said, "The UGC has a clear circular on both ragging and sexual harassment. Students should be educated on the possible avenues of sexual harassment in layman's terms."

He added, "The guideline will be widely circulated among the student community in the next few days."

The circular instructs students to notify university authorities immediately if they are have issues related to sexual harassment, or confide in friends if that makes them more comfortable.

Prabhudev, added, "It's their duty to inform us. I strongly urge them to study in groups if they have to work outside normal working hours to avoid a situation."

The VC also discouraged private moments with tutors that might create a catch both parties unaware. "Most of the time incidents occur if teachers are divorced, unmarried or have an inferiority complex, " he added.

Sunil Kumar, ACP (Law and Order), said, "We cannot force anyone to come forward with complaints of sexual harassment. But it is important to inform someone about the matter. Anyone with comfort issues can approach a known person if they feel comfortable to do so."

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