Anti-sexual harassment cell

The seminar “Know Your Rights: A Seminar on Gender Sensitization, POSH Act and Child Marriage Act” was organized by the Anti-Sexual Harassment Cell and Equal Opportunity Cell of Bishop Vayalil Memorial Holy Cross College on 19 December 2025 for staff and students. The programme aimed to promote legal awareness, gender sensitivity, and a safe campus environment. Adv. Thomas Joseph Thoomkuzhy delivered an informative session on gender biases, the POSH Act, and the Child Marriage Prohibition Act, explaining legal rights, complaint procedures, and preventive measures. The interactive session helped participants better understand their rights and responsibilities, thereby strengthening awareness of gender equality and institutional safety within the campus.

An awareness class titled “No Means No – Awareness for Change” was organized for first-year degree students to educate them about sexual harassment and the importance of consent. The programme was coordinated by Ms. Nimmy John, Ms. Stephia Stephen, and Ms. Sini Mol Antony under the guidance of the Anti-Sexual Harassment Cell. Students were divided into four groups for better interaction, and the sessions included discussions, real-life examples, and visual materials to help them understand their rights and responsibilities.
The session was handled by Ms. Nimmy John, who explained the types of sexual harassment, the legal framework in India, and the importance of respecting personal boundaries. The programme also included an introduction to the Anti-Sexual Harassment Cell and counselling support by Ms. Stephia Stephen. The key message “No Means No” was emphasized throughout the session, encouraging students to recognize, resist, and report harassment and to promote a safe and respectful campus environment.

To commemorate the International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict, the Anti-Sexual Harassment Cell of our college organized a significant event, “Break the Silence, Take the Oath.” The event was held in the college campus classroom, where students gathered to take a collective stand against sexual violence.
Through the microphone from the Principal’s room, a student leader announced the oath, which was taken by all students present. The Principal and Coordinator addressed the gathering, highlighting the importance of this day and the need to work towards creating a safe and respectful environment.
The event concluded with a renewed commitment from the students to stand against sexual violence and promote a culture of zero tolerance towards harassment. The Anti-Sexual Harassment Cell’s efforts to raise awareness and promote action on this critical issue were commendable.