Buntain Theological College is committed to protecting the biblical mandate of human dignity, gender equality and ethical behaviour.

This policy accepts as binding all relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) in 2023; The Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013 and The University Grants Commission (UGC) guidelines on gender equality and safety.

This policy is also governed by the ‘The Assembly of God Church Mission Policy on Prevention of Sexual Harassment at Workplace’(approved by the AG Church Board[APEX] meeting held on 5^th August 2018) as applicable to employees of the AG Mission.

Sexual harassment has come to be widely condemned as a form of human rights violation and breach of life and liberty and a severe form of gender-based discrimination. Such behavior is an outrage to dignity, gender equality and fundamental rights.

1. Introduction & Commitment

At Buntain Theological College we believe that every individual is created in the image of God (Genesis 1:27) and deserves to be treated with dignity, respect, and equality. Our commitment is to provide a safe, inclusive, and harassment-free campus for students, faculty, and staff, ensuring an environment where everyone can grow spiritually, academically, and personally.

This policy is designed to:

1. Promote gender sensitivity by fostering equal respect and opportunities for both genders.
2. Prevent and address any form of sexual harassment, whether verbal, physical, or online.
3. Ensure compliance with biblical principles, Indian legal frameworks, and best practices for Christian institutions.

2. Biblical Foundations

• Genesis 1:27 – “So God created mankind in His own image… male and female He created them.”
• Galatians 3:28 – “There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.”
• 1 Timothy 5:2 – “Treat younger women as sisters, with absolute purity.”

These verses emphasize that men and women are equal in value before God and should be treated with honor, love, and respect in all areas of life.

3. Scope of the Policy

This policy applies to:

• All students, faculty, staff, administration, and visitors within the Bible college premises.
• All off-campus activities such as mission trips, outreach programs, college events, and internships.
• Online interactions such as social media, emails, and other digital communications related to college affairs.

4. Definitions
5. Gender Sensitivity

Gender sensitivity means creating a culture of respect, dignity, and equality. This includes:

• Encouraging equal leadership roles for men and women in academics, administration, and ministry.
• Eliminating gender biases in teaching materials, classroom discussions, and campus policies.
• Fostering a culture of mutual respect in male-female interactions.

1. Sexual Harassment

Sexual harassment refers to any unwelcome sexual behavior that creates an intimidating, hostile, or offensive environment. This includes:

1.Physical Harassment

• Inappropriate touching, groping, or patting.
• Inappropriate physical proximity.
• Sexual advances or inappropriate gestures.

2.Verbal Harassment

• Sexually suggestive comments, jokes, or remarks.
• Making derogatory comments about a person’s gender or appearance.
• Asking for sexual favors in exchange for academic or personal benefits.

3.Non-Verbal & Online Harassment

• Staring, leering, or suggestive gestures.
• Sending inappropriate texts, images, or videos.
• Cyberbullying or stalking on social media.

4.Quid Pro Quo Harassment

• Offering academic grades, ministry positions, or benefits in exchange for sexual favors.

5. Prevention Measures

To ensure a safe and respectful campus, the college will implement the following:

1. Awareness & Training

• Annual workshops on gender sensitivity and sexual harassment prevention.
• Mandatory orientation sessions for all new students and staff.

1. Inclusive Policies

• Equal leadership opportunities for men and women.
• Encouragement of healthy, biblical relationships between genders.
• Strict dress code that promotes modesty and respect without gender bias.

1. Discipleship & Accountability

• Faculty and staff will model respectful, Christ-centered behavior.
• A system of mentorship and pastoral care for students.

6. Complaint & Redressal Mechanism
7. Internal Committee (IC)

The Internal Committee (IC) will be responsible for handling complaints confidentially and fairly.

Composition of IC:

         1.Senior faculty member (Chairperson)

         2.At least one female faculty member

         3.One male faculty member

         4.One external legal/social work expert

1. Filing a Complaint

• Complaints can be submitted in writing or via email to the IC.
• The complaint must be filed within 3 months of the incident (can be extended under valid reasons).

1. Investigation Process

• The IC will investigate within 90 days, ensuring fairness and confidentiality.
• The accused will be given a chance to present their side.

1. Actions Upon Violation

If found guilty, the offender may face:

• Verbal or written warning.
• Mandatory counseling or sensitivity training.
• Suspension or expulsion (for students) or recommend for appropriate action to the BTC MC (for staff).
• Legal action if necessary.

7. Code of Conduct for Campus Interactions

To maintain a God-honoring atmosphere, all students and staff must:

• Interact with the opposite gender with purity and respect (1 Timothy 5:2).
• Avoid inappropriate jokes, comments, or physical contact.
• Use social media responsibly, refraining from sending inappropriate messages.

8. Disciplinary Actions for False Complaints

• If a complaint is found to be false and made with malicious intent, disciplinary action will be taken against the complainant.
• However, if a complaint is filed in good faith but cannot be proven, no action will be taken against the complainant.

9. Counseling & Support System

The college will provide:

• Confidential counseling services for victims.
• Pastoral support and prayer ministry for healing and restoration.

10. Review & Monitoring

• The policy will be reviewed periodically by the IC and BTC MC.
• Regular feedback from students and staff will be considered for updates.

Conclusion

At Buntain Theological College we strive to create an environment where everyone is valued, safe, and respected. By following biblical principles and legal guidelines, we aim to uphold Christ-like love and justice in our campus culture.