This Article is From Dec 27, 2015

Don't Publicise Sexual Harassment Cases, JNU Asks Students, Faculty

Don't Publicise Sexual Harassment Cases, JNU Asks Students, Faculty

The varsity has directed its students and faculty to refrain from "publicising" such incidents

New Delhi: Facing criticism over the highest number of sexual harassment cases reported from Jawaharlal Nehru University, the varsity has directed its students and faculty to refrain from "publicising" such incidents and maintain strict "confidentiality".

"The entire JNU community is requested to uphold the principles of gender justice, which includes maintaining strict confidentiality about GSCASH cases. The committee actively tries to counter any attempt to create a hostile environment which includes instilling an atmosphere of fear and silence," the varsity said in an official communication.

"Making public the confidential and personal details of any case or individuals adds in creating a hostile environment rather than containing it. This kind of irresponsible behaviour on part of any member or group on campus to further narrow political gains is not appreciated," it added.

The communication further said, "such acts tantamount to grave violation of privacy of those who have entrusted faith in GSCASH. Any such incident should be reported to GSCASH instead of publicising. This will further aggravate and amplify the sufferings of the concerned and will have a detrimental effect on mental peace and tranquility".

A group of JNU teachers had also recently criticised the varsity's Gender Sensitisation Committee Against Sexual Harassment (GSCASH), alleging its processes were "perverted" and confidentiality with regard to complaints was being "blatantly violated" leading to "defaming" the complainants and putting their integrity on "public trial".
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